On Tuesday, October 22, 2024, following the recent Apostolic visit of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to Australia, the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia convened under the chairmanship of Archbishop Makarios of Australia. The meeting was marked by both administrative decisions and heartfelt reflections on the recent historic visit.
The session began with an inaugural prayer, after which Archbishop Makarios and the assembled bishops offered their wishes for the health and longevity of the Ecumenical Patriarch, commemorating the anniversary of His All-Holiness’s election to the Apostolic and Ecumenical Throne of Constantinople. In their words, they expressed deep gratitude for the Patriarch’s recent visit to Australia, a visit that greatly blessed and inspired the clergy and faithful of the fifth continent.
In the course of the Synod, Archbishop Makarios proposed two significant appointments, both of which were unanimously approved. Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia was appointed Chief Secretary of the Holy Eparchial Synod, while Archdeacon Athinagoras Karakonstantakis was named Deputy Secretary. These appointments were made with a focus on strengthening the Synod’s administrative efficiency.
The meeting then proceeded with the examination of the items on the agenda, with appropriate decisions taken on various matters. The Synod will reconvene tomorrow, Wednesday, October 23, to continue its deliberations and decision-making.
This gathering not only addressed essential ecclesiastical matters but also reflected the deep sense of connection and continuity with the Ecumenical Patriarchate, reinforcing the bonds between the Holy Archdiocese of Australia and the Mother Church of Constantinople.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
