Good afternoon, everyone.
I begin by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land on which we meet, and I pay my respects to their elders past, present and emerging.
It also gives me great pleasure to acknowledge:
- Your All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew
- Your Eminence Archbishop Makarios
- Graces and Reverend Fathers
- Ambassador of Greece to Australia, and Consul General of Greece in Melbourne
- Members of federal and state parliament and local government who are here today
- Other distinguished guests
- Friends
It is an honour to be here with you for this joyous occasion.
This visit by His All-Holiness coincides with the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia.
A very special milestone, and a testament to the energy, the strength and the stamina of a community – generation after generation.
It is powerful as an expression of faith, and also as an enduring act that honours both the heritage of the old country and the haven of the new. What a powerful bond to have between two nations.
From humble beginnings as a small Holy Metropolis, the Greek Orthodox Church has flourished over the past century.
The Church has helped preserve the culture, language and traditions of Australia’s Greek community, connecting more than 400,000 people to their heritage.
It has brought people together in the spirit of love and compassion that is the great, beating heart of the Christian faith.
And it has nurtured a sense of belonging, helped people in need, and nourished the Greek community and our nation.
For that, we are so grateful.
And, as we reflect with thanks on the past 100 years, we have so much reason to be hopeful for the next 100.
This National Parade is a magnificent tribute to His All-Holiness, and a jubilant celebration of Australia’s Greek Orthodox community.
From the first Orthodox arrivals in the 19th century to the waves of migrants escaping war-ravaged Europe, hundreds of thousands of Greek people have made their home in Australia.
For generations, you have helped build Australia. You are a central part of the story of modern Australia, and the great, vibrant multicultural society that we have built.
A society that we have built together. A society we take such pride in together.
Your All-Holiness,
I was honoured to attend the historic service at the Holy Cathedral of the Annunciation in Sydney last week, and to welcome you to Kirribilli House.
Today, it is my great honour to welcome you back to Melbourne.
It is a city to which you are connected on many levels.
Saint Paisios the Athonite — Patron Saint of Australia and someone you knew well — visited this city in 1977.
And we have the fortune of being able to count your brother as a Melburnian.
Melbourne, of course, is one of the great Greek-speaking cities of the world.
And being here today, I’m taken back to the vibrant Antipodes Festival in the historic Greek quarter on Lonsdale Street I attended earlier this year.
The festival is a celebration of Hellenic culture, and brings together people from so many other backgrounds and faiths, as well.
Your All-Holiness,
As spiritual leader to Orthodox Christians around the world, you have become one of the most revered religious figures of our time.
You have provided comfort to millions of people.
You were one of the first global spiritual leaders to raise awareness about climate change and environmental issues.
You have worked for the peaceful coexistence of all people.
And at this deeply challenging time in the world, the values of respect, kindness, understanding and compassion that you embody are more important than ever.
We are deeply honoured by your presence.
Kalosorisate.
Welcome.