Synaxis held in the Holy Diocese of Chora – Key matters discussed

On Monday, 17 August, with the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, a Priestly Synaxis was held at the premises of the Holy Diocese of Chora in Northcote, Victoria, with the participation of the Diocese’s clergy.

The Synaxis commenced with a presentation by His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora, who conveyed to the fathers the love and blessings of Archbishop Makarios and extended his festal wishes to them on the great Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos.

In his presentation, His Grace addressed aspects of contemporary priestly and pastoral ministry, emphasising that the responsibility of a priest is not limited solely to those who attend church regularly. Particular pastoral care must also be shown towards those who remain more distant, attend only occasionally or, for whatever reason, have withdrawn from the Church.

“The person who does not attend church every Sunday does not cease to be our pastoral responsibility,” he observed, stressing the need for clergy to seek ways of reaching such people, to listen to them and always to leave open the path of return.

On the occasion of the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, His Grace also spoke about…