The Greek Orthodox Community of Australia celebrated Archbishop Stylianos’ 40th anniversary as the head of the church, since he was enthroned by the Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
The official representative of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, Metropolitan Ambrosios of Korea, attended the dinner, reading out the Patriarch’s message to the more than 800-strong audience of Greek Orthodox faithful who filled Le Montage’s Sarah Grand Ballroom.
Leaders and representatives of every major Orthodox jurisdiction in Australia were also present, alongside many other dignitaries who gathered to honour Archbishop Stylianos.
Rev. Father Steven Scoutas and Nicholas Pappas, secretary of the Archdiocesan Council, were the MCs for the evening, conveying the action equally in Greek and English.
Greek Ambassador to Australia Haris Dafaranos, Federal MP Anthony Albanese and former minister in the New South Wales government, George Souris, gave speeches following a video showing the highlights of Archbishop Stylianos’ Australian service.
After Archbishop Stylianos’ thankyou speech, the celebration culminated with the internationally-acclaimed conductor, George Ellis, leading the Millennium Choir of the Archdiocese.