Australian Greek Archdiocese Marks 2026 as 'Year of Patriarch Bartholomew'

Photo: orthodoxtimes.com

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA — The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia has declared 2026 as the “Year of Patriarch Bartholomew” in honor of the 35th anniversary of the Ecumenical Patriarch’s ministry. Abp. Makarios of Australia announced the designation during the Archdiocese’s Vasilopita-cutting ceremony on January 2 at Sydney’s Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos.

A series of events will take place across Australia, culminating in a pilgrimage to Constantinople in October and a major celebration on the day commemorating Pat. Bartholomew’s election. Abp. Makarios expressed gratitude for the Patriarch’s personal care and the benefactions of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, noting that “God has blessed His All-Holiness; He wants him there, because in the end it is God who decides.”

The Archbishop also reviewed 2025 highlights, including the historic election of Bp. Athanagoras of Canberra and Bp. Christophoros of Kerasous. He encouraged the faithful to set spiritual goals for the year and invited all to participate in the celebrations and pilgrimage honoring the long-serving Primate of Orthodoxy.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Makarios declared that miracles should not be the driving motive for faith. 

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