Historic Election of Orthodox Clergy to leadership roles in the Victorian Council of Churches
The Orthodox Christian faithful in Victoria celebrate a historic milestone for inter-Christian witness and cooperation.
On Friday, 17 May 2025, Father Panagiotis Zoumboulis was duly elected as President of the Victorian Council of Churches. His election marks a providential and unprecedented moment in the life of the Council, which this year commemorates 121 years of service and unity among the Christian Churches of Victoria.
His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, upon receiving the news of Fr. Panagiotis’ election, offered the following words:
“This is a historic moment, as it marks the first time in the 121-year history of the Council that a Greek Orthodox cleric has been elected to this role. It is a testimony to the growing recognition of the Orthodox Church’s spiritual, theological, and pastoral contribution to the Christian witness in Australia.”
Fr. Panagiotis will serve a two-year term in this esteemed office. His duties will include representing the state of Victoria at the national level through the Australian Council of Churches, thereby extending Orthodox presence and voice within the broader ecumenical dialogue of the nation.
In further joyful news, the Very Reverend Father Dimitrios Catrinei was also elected to serve as an Executive Member of the Victorian Council of Churches. His election signifies an additional step toward a more vibrant and visible Orthodox contribution to the common Christian mission in the public square.
