Theo Maras AM, the former president of the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) has written to the GOCSA members imploring them to vote for a reconciliation with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia. “I feel compelled to reach out to you at this pivotal moment in our history” begins Maras’s letter.
As president of GOCSA in the mid 2000s Maras was active in trying to heal the rift between the community and the church.
“For 64 years, we have endured division due to a schism that has weakened our community and distanced us from our fellow Hellenes here in South Australia,” he writes.
He referred to the schedule special general meeting organised by GOCSA on this matter for Sunday, as “a crucial opportunity” to “move beyond the past and embrace a future that unites all Greek people in South Australia”.
Theo Maras, the founder, and Chairman of Maras Group, is a major developer and his son Steve, have played a major role in the urban and cultural revitalisation of Adelaide’s CBD.
The influential South Australian in his letter implores GOCSA members to vote for reconciliation because the issue “is bigger than us.”
“It is about the legacy we leave for our children and future generations. Our divided churches cannot provide the strength, love, and guidance our children need, and it is unfair to pass this burden onto them.
“By uniting our Ecclesiastical and Spiritual Orthodox faith, we can give them a strong foundation to build their lives upon, grounded in faith, community, and shared purpose, as any family should be,” Theo Maras
In his letter, Maras urged members to attend the weekend’s meeting and to “vote to end this division once and for all.”
“I fully support the proposed motions and will be voting YES on all resolutions and motions put forward on Sunday 27 October.
“Let us show that we are stronger together, and that the bonds of love and faith are far greater than any differences.
“By voting in favour, we are choosing reconciliation, strength, and a future filled with hope and prosperity,” writes Maras.
His emotive and stirring letter calls on members of GOCSA to “close this painful chapter and begin a new era.”
“An era where our Church stands united, ready to guide and nurture future generations, and where our community reclaims its role as the unified voice of Greek South Australians.”
The historic opportunity to heal a decades-long rift may be within reach and GOCSA president Peter Gardiakos had expressed cautious optimism to Neos Kosmos that the majority will vote in favour of reconciliation.
The Extraordinary General Meeting is called for October 27, at 2pm at Olympic Hall, 288 Franklin Street.
