Abp. Makarios: Church Risks Losing Identity Without Greek Language

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FAWKNER, AUSTRALIA — Abp. Makarios of Australia has reaffirmed the central role of the Greek language in Orthodox worship, warning that abandoning it would endanger the Church’s identity within the Greek diaspora. Speaking at the conclusion of the Vespers of the Descent from the Cross on Holy Friday at the Church of St. Nektarios in Fawkner, he stressed that liturgical Greek remains essential to preserving both spiritual and cultural continuity.

The Archbishop declared that the faithful must remain anchored in their heritage, criticizing a recent service that was divided equally between Greek and English. He argued that while pastoral adaptation has its place, the core of Orthodox worship should not be diluted. “If the Church loses its Greek identity, then we are in serious trouble,” he said.

At the same time, Abp. Makarios acknowledged practical challenges, including the need for more chanters and greater engagement with youth. He suggested limited use of English could help younger generations, but insisted that Greek must remain dominant in services. He emphasized unity between tradition and outreach while maintaining firm boundaries on liturgical language.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Makarios of Australia said miracles should not be the primary motivation that drives faith.

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