Victoria: Reception hosted by the State Premier for the start of Holy and Great Lent
In a spirit of unity and collaboration, the State of Victoria hosted a special reception to mark the start of Holy and Great Lent, at the initiative of the State Premier, The Hon. Jacinta Allan. The event was attended by Christian leaders from various traditions, highlighting the importance of inter-Christian dialogue and its contribution to the cohesion and progress of the wider society.
The Holy Archdiocese of Australia was represented by Their Graces, Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne and Bishop Evmenios of Chora. His Grace Bishop Evmenios had the honour of addressing the gathering, on behalf of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, conveying his paternal wishes and blessings for the beginning of Holy and Great Lent.
His Grace, among other things, emphasised the importance of Lent as a period of spiritual reflection, prayer and preparation for the saving event of the Lord’s Resurrection. This period is not only an individual exercise, he pointed out, but also a collective invitation to love, justice and the strengthening of the common good.
Particular reference was made to Christian unity, underlining that, despite different ecclesiastical traditions, faith, peace, solidarity and charity are values that unite all Christians. In this context, the importance of the 1,700th anniversary of the convening of the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea, which defined the fundamental principles of the Church and remains a symbol of unity for all Christians, was emphasised.
At the same time, the need for peaceful coexistence and cooperation was highlighted, especially in an era when wars and geopolitical tensions continue to test humanity. The challenges of the modern era demonstrate the responsibility of Christian leaders to function as bridges of reconciliation and support for their fellow human beings.
The Holy Archdiocese of Australia, under the leadership of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios, remains steadfastly committed to promoting Christian unity and working with all people of good will. In a spirit of dialogue and solidarity, the Archdiocese seeks to contribute to building a society based on respect, peace and justice.
The Holy Archdiocese expresses its sincere thanks to the Premier of Victoria for the initiative to highlight the importance of Christian heritage and the role of Christian leaders in preserving the social fabric and fundamental values of the state.
