The Lord Mayor of Adelaide, Dr Jane Lomax-Smith, extended her congratulations to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia for its 100th anniversary, holding a reception to honour the occasion with Archbishop of Australia Makarios in attendance.
The reception was held at the Adelaide City Hall on Monday 24 June, with Archbishop Makarios, who was in the city for a pastoral visit, serving as the guest of honour.
Archbishop Makarios expressed gratitude in his address for the initiative honouring the Archdiocese’s 100th anniversary, proceeding to delve into its history from foundation to today as an example of the strong effort of the Greek migrants to maintain their cultural heritage.
“The grace of the Holy Spirit blessed their efforts and enabled our Church to develop and flourish,” he said before sharing some of the positive work they do today through its many organizations and charitable institutions.
He concluded by sending a message of unity, emphasising:
“Only when we are united, in a spirit of love, can we prosper and positively influence those around us…Only when we are united we can shine as individuals and, collectively, as a community.”
Anastasios “Tom” Koutsantonis, SA Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, and for Energy and Mining, praised Archbishop Makarios and the Archdiocese for the impact they have had.
“On behalf of the SA Premier and Government, and myse;f, please know that we are on your side and recognise your struggles for the unity of the Greeks, especially here in Adelaide,” Koutsantonis said.
Among the guests were the Ambassador of Greece to Australia, Stavros Venizelos, and his wife Lara Tikaidi, the Consul General of Greece in Adelaide, George Psiachas, Bishops Silouan of Sinope and Bartholomew of Charioupolis, as well as other political representatives and members of community organisations.
