Australian PM Albanese Joins Greek Orthodox Easter Celebration with Archbishop Makarios and Greek Diplomats

SYDNEY, April 20, 2025 – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese celebrated Orthodox Easter Sunday with Sydney’s Greek Orthodox community, sharing a festive lunch with His Eminence Archbishop Makarios at a popular Greek restaurant in the city center.

The event, attended by the Greek Ambassador to Australia, Stavros Venizelos, and the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis, highlighted the vibrant Pascha festivities and Australia’s multicultural spirit.

Late Saturday night, Albanese posted on X, “Χριστός Ανέστη! Honoured to celebrate Easter with His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.” The traditional greeting, meaning “Christ is Risen,” resonated with thousands of Orthodox Christians nationwide. The lunch, a lively gathering of community leaders and the Greek diaspora, featured traditional dishes like roasted lamb and tsoureki, fostering a sense of unity and celebration.

Archbishop Makarios, Primate of the Greek Orthodox Church in Australia, led the Easter festivities, which included midnight liturgies and communal events. Ambassador Venizelos and Consul General Mallikourtis' presence underscored the strong ties between Greece and Australia’s Greek community. Albanese’s participation, especially notable as Orthodox Easter coincided with Western Easter in 2025, reinforced his commitment to cultural diversity.

As Orthodox Easter celebrations continue, Albanese’s presence alongside Archbishop Makarios and Greek diplomats is a powerful symbol of Australia’s inclusive, multicultural identity.

Photos Copyright Nick Bourdaniotis / Greek City Times.

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