Lighting of the Diocese of Brisbane Christmas Tree

Last Sunday, 17 November 2024, His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane invited clergy and laity to the offices of the Holy Diocese of Brisbane for the inaugural lighting of the Christmas tree.

The evening commenced with His Grace welcoming everyone on behalf of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.

Traditional carols were sung by the local choir of Brisbane ‘Ellinikes Fones’.

His Grace then spoke about the meaning of Christmas, that we must allow Christ, the new Adam to be born in our hearts and that we should not just focus on material things but our priority must be on the spiritual.

Bishop Bartholomew then handed everyone an envelope with different charities, encouraging people to donate directly to the charity stating that Christmas is about aims giving, quoting the words of scripture “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts. 20:35).

The lighting of the Christmas tree then took place where Christmas hymns were chanted.

The bishop then explained that the lighting of the Christmas tree was an opportunity for all people to come together, to be familiar with the offices of the Holy Diocese and to become familiar with the Bishop of Brisbane, that the door of the Bishop is always open for all people and that the Archdiocese is here to support, assist and serve all people.

Finally, His Grace on behalf of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, wished everyone a Merry Christmas, filled with the Blessings of God. 

Light refreshments were served to all those presents during the function.