The Ecumenical Patriarchate has announced the election of two new Bishops to serve the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia: Bishop Athenagoras of Canberra and Bishop Christophoros of Cerasus.
The decision follows the process outlined in the Archdiocese’s constitution. On the recommendation of Archbishop Makarios of Australia, the Holy Eparchial Synod compiled the official list of candidates (known as the triprosopon). This was then submitted to the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople, which, under the chairmanship of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, unanimously elected the two new Bishops.
Both ordinations will take place later this month at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Sydney.
Archbishop Makarios will preside over the services alongside auxiliary Bishops of the Archdiocese. The Archdiocese has invited members of the Greek Orthodox community across Australia to attend and mark what it has described as a milestone moment for the local Church.
- Friday 26 September, 7am – Ordination of Bishop-elect Athenagoras of Canberra to the priesthood.
- Friday 26 September, 6pm – Service of the Great Message for both Bishops-elect, followed by Great Vespers.
- Saturday 27 September, 7am – Episcopal ordination of Bishop Athenagoras of Canberra.
- Sunday 28 September, 7am – Episcopal ordination of Bishop Christophoros of Cerasus, currently Protosyngellos of the Archdiocese of Australia.
