During his recent speech at the official dinner hosted by the Archdiocese of Australia in his honor, the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew discussed important topics such as love, solidarity, and the necessity of dialogue among religious communities, both within Australia and globally.
He highlighted the significance of the Greek diaspora within Australian society, describing Hellenism as a broader concept that goes beyond national and geographical boundaries.
The Patriarch also stressed the importance of moral principles like love and justice in creating a harmonious social environment, while emphasizing the need for dialogue and education to promote understanding among different religions.
Focusing on the work of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, he underscored the value of religious freedom and human rights, offering blessings and good wishes to those in attendance.
Excerpt from the speech of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew:
With great joy and enthusiasm, we gather once again this evening among esteemed friends and brothers at this joyous table, sharing love and honor and enjoying your hospitality. We echo the words of the Prophet King David: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity” (Psalm 133:1). From the moment of our arrival in this land, we have felt among brothers and not in a foreign place.
Our brief experience in Australia has shown us that Australian society is welcoming and embraces diversity and different cultural traditions. It is a society built on humanity, freedom, equal opportunities, education, spiritual values, and fundamental institutions like family and faith. Citizens here live on strong foundations, filled with hope for the future.
The Greek diaspora, or Rum as we more accurately refer to it, is an integral part of this flourishing Australian society. Romiosini is a way of life, an ideal, and a dream beyond geographical or racial origins. The Australian diaspora, both in numbers and vibrancy, has benefitted from the support of the Australian government and has enriched the country with Greek culture and tradition, contributing significantly to its development.
Australia, as a secular state, upholds religious freedom and allows the practice of worship without favoring any particular tradition. The mosaic of religious traditions in Australia is a treasure, as religion plays a vital and positive role in modern society.
Religions, especially Christianity, promote moral principles like solidarity, love, forgiveness, and justice, fostering a framework for harmonious coexistence, communal spirit, and shared identity. Religious traditions also encourage charitable acts and mutual aid, bridging social gaps and promoting understanding among different groups.
Religious leaders have a duty to promote dialogue and education to dispel fears, prejudices, and tensions, as well as to instill respect and tolerance within their communities. Respecting other traditions does not mean compromising one’s own faith.
This truth has been defended by our martyred Ecumenical Patriarchate with sacrificial love throughout history.
The Ecumenical Patriarchate, honoring the ancient Tradition and Faith, is open to engaging in dialogue with anyone who approaches with good intentions. This dialogue is not meant to compromise the principles and values of the Orthodox faith, but rather to share the experiential truth of the Orthodox witness and work together towards promoting fundamental human rights, religious freedom, justice, and peace.
We express our gratitude for your warm hospitality and extend our blessings to all of you and your families. May you receive abundant grace from the All-Holy God, find joy and blessings in the Lord, and be strengthened in your journey.
Thank you.
[Photo: Nikos Papachristou]
[Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou]
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