Ambassador of Greece in Australia visits the Diocesan offices of Brisbane

The Ambassador of Greece in Australia, His Excellency Mr Stavros Venizelos accompanied by his spouse Ms Larissa Tikaidi visited the Diocesan Offices of Brisbane. 

His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane welcomed His Excellency on behalf of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.

Also in attendance was the Honorary Consul-General of Greece in Queensland, Mr George Mastrocostas and the Clergy of Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

The morning commenced with a visit to the church of Saint Paraskevi where His Excellency received a tour of the church and was informed of its history by Parish Priest Father Athanasios Athanasiadis. His Excellency then had the opportunity to venerate the many holy relics that the church houses.

Following the church tour, Bishop Bartholomew conducted a brief tour of the diocesan offices.

Bishop Bartholomew conveyed the love and blessings of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia and informed the ambassador that His Eminence will be visiting Brisbane this week for the upcoming State Youth Conference.

Moreover, His Grace spoke about the importance of preserving our national identity, preserving our faith, our language, our culture and history. 

The Bishop continued by praising the Ambassador stating that he is an individual who has captured the love of the people with his humility, love and respect towards the Church and his fellow human person.

Bishop Bartholomew wished the ambassador abundant blessings with his responsibilities, a role that has as a goal to serve the human person.

Furthermore, the Bishop spoke about the person of the Honorary Consul-General of Greece in Queensland, Mr George Mastrocostas, expressing his love and appreciation for his efforts thus far in Queensland.

His Excellency Ambassador Venizelos thanked His Grace for his kind words and hospitality and in return wished him all the very best in his duties.