The Ecumenical Patriarch received an honorary doctorate from St. Andrew’s Theological College in Sydney.
During his official visit to Australia, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew spoke at the University of Sydney, marking the 100th anniversary of the Archdiocese of Australia.
In his address to the students, clergy, and professors of the Theological School, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew stressed the importance of the Synod in maintaining the unity of the Church.
He highlighted the significance of the Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church in Crete and the principles of synodal conscience.
The Ecumenical Patriarch emphasized two essential conditions for the synodal spirit of the Church to function effectively.
Firstly, he noted the importance of the role of the First in synodality, stating that without the presence of the First, there can be no Synod.
Secondly, he emphasized that Synodality must operate within the boundaries set by the Ecumenical Councils.
He also commended the approval of the new Charter of the Archdiocese of Australia, which establishes a Synod of Bishops with the Archbishop of Australia as the First.
