In the new year, the issue of the Greek Community of St Albans’ membership in the Archdiocese has returned to the fore.
So much so that former presidents, parish priest Father Irinaios Koikas, Brimbank Mayor Cr Georgina Papafotiou, and members hosted a New Year’s Eve event at the Community’s hall where they all expressed their willingness to work together towards returning to the ranks of the Archdiocese.
This raised questions about whether the current Committee is on board with the decision.
READ MORE: Explainer: Understanding the schism that led to the Autocephalous churches of Australia
Speaking to Neos Kosmos, Community President Elias Dimitrakopoulos attempted to quash rumours of fragmentation within the Community, saying that he himself and the Committee also want accession to the Archdiocese.
“We are just exploring ways to find a solution to the issue of titles. Our church and hall are under the same title. The Archdiocese wants the title of the church and there must be a separation so that both the Community and the Archdiocese are safeguarded,” he said.
He added that “there are no two factions. We all agree, we just have a different approach on how the matter should be resolved”.
READ: Christmas present for THALPORI – Breaking ground at St Albans