October 9, 2024 will forever be remembered by the Parish-Community of the Resurrection of Christ in Kogarah, Sydney, as a momentous day. The leader of the Orthodox Church, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, graced the parishioners with his presence, bringing joy and blessings. The church was adorned in celebration, with the youth of the Greek Orthodox community leading the warm reception.
Upon his arrival, the Patriarch was greeted with love by children wearing shirts proclaiming “Your All-Holiness, we love you.” The atmosphere was filled with smiles and emotions as people of all ages gathered to welcome him and receive his blessing. The national anthems of Australia and Greece were played by a student band and choir before the Patriarch delivered a heartfelt address in front of the Church of the Resurrection.
Bartholomew expressed his gratitude for returning to a place where Greek Orthodox traditions thrived, thanks to the dedication of immigrants who settled in Kogarah. He praised the pivotal role played by the Church of the Resurrection in preserving cultural connections and fostering a sense of belonging. He also highlighted the parish’s charitable activities, support for schools and hospitals, and engagement in community initiatives.
Referencing the Holy and Great Council of Crete in 2016, the Patriarch emphasized the Orthodox Church’s mission in addressing challenges such as racism, poverty, and economic inequality. He urged unity and solidarity among believers, envisioning the church as a beacon of hope and a promoter of sharing and communion.
After his speech, Patriarch Bartholomew enjoyed performances by the younger members of the community before entering the church with Archbishop Makarios of Australia, Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, and other dignitaries. Bishop Christodoulos expressed gratitude on behalf of all, while the Patriarch fondly recalled his previous visit to Kogarah in 1996.
During his Patriarchate, he paid tribute to the humble personality of Elder Paisios of Mount Athos, who was later canonized as a saint of the Orthodox Church and became the Patron Saint of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia. He also mentioned the addition of 70 saints to the Church’s calendar, describing it as a blessing from God and an enrichment of our tradition and spirituality.
The Patriarchal visit to the Parish-Community of the Resurrection of Christ was attended by Metropolitan Kyrillos of Imbros and Tenedos, Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki, and other dignitaries. Among them were Abbess Iakovi of the Monastery of the Forerunner in Akrithochori, Archon Teacher Konstantinos Delikostantis, and many clergy from the Holy Archdiocese of Australia.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
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