The leader of the federal opposition Peter Dutton released a statement emphasising the “honour” he felt in welcoming the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to Australia, to mark the 100th anniversary of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia.
The opposition leader attended a dinner in honour of the Patriarch where he discussed the cleric’s visit to Australia, the Greek community and the role of the Greek Orthodox Church as a gel in the Hellenic Diaspora.
“I was delighted to meet personally with His All-Holiness, and His Eminence Archbishop Makarios, on Monday, and I was also honoured to attend the dinner for His All-Holiness in Sydney,” Dutton said in his statement.
He called the gathering “an extraordinary event attended by many members of the Greek Orthodox Church, approximately 1500, Members of Parliament, Ambassadors and Consul-Generals, and Members of local church communities.”
Dutton said it was “a celebration of faith and the contribution of the Greek Orthodox Church to Australia.”
“Greek Australians have enriched our society through their hard work, dedication to education, and commitment to family and faith.”
Dutton said that the presence of the Patriarch in Australia, “offers us an opportunity to reflect on the enormous contributions of the Greek community to our nation.”
“Known as the ‘Patriarch for Peace’, His All-Holiness has been a tireless advocate for global peace, environmental protection, and the spiritual wellbeing of all communities.
“His message is one of compassion and stewardship, transcending religious and cultural boundaries, and resonating with the timeless values that Australians hold,” Dutton said.
He extended his “warmest welcome to His All-Holiness” on “behalf of the Australian people”.
“As we celebrate this centenary and this visit, may His All-Holiness’s presence here bring us together in a spirit of connection and shared purpose, honouring the legacy of Greek Australians and their contribution to our great country.”
