Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Plans Visit to Australia, Celebrating Greek Orthodox Archdiocese's 100th Anniversary

The spiritual leader of approximately 300 million Greek Orthodox Christians worldwide, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, is making preparations to visit Australia later this year.

The visit, which is part of a series of celebrations commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, was confirmed by Australian Archbishop Makarios. The trip is scheduled to take place in the first half of October, during which Bartholomew is expected to visit churches and communities throughout the country. Speaking at a ceremony honoring the new year and featuring the customary cutting of the Vassilopita cake, Makarios highlighted the significant influence of Greeks on the history of Australia, as their presence, "philotimo" (a concept of honor and a strong sense of duty), hard work, and progress have greatly shaped the state.