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# Australian Synod Acts to Rein In Clergy Influencers
- URL: https://uoj.news/news/86922-australian-synod-acts-to-rein-in-clergy-influencers/
- Published: 2026-04-16T13:15:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-25T16:13:47.000Z
- Description: The Australian Synod is pushing back against clergy influencer culture to preserve the Church’s spiritual mission.
- Author: Tobias Straney
- Tags: #Category: News, Information technologies, Archbishop Makarios of Australia, Social media

**SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA —** The Holy Eparchial Synod of the Archdiocese of Australia has concluded its April 14–16 session with a [decisive move](https://orthodoxtimes.com/archdiocese-of-australia-puts-the-brakes-on-clergy-influencers-on-social-media/) to curb the growing trend of clergy acting as social-media influencers. Meeting under the presidency of Abp. Makarios of Australia, the Synod addressed concerns about the changing public presence of clergy in the digital age.

Hierarchs expressed alarm that some priests and monastics increasingly present themselves online as preachers and teachers, at times appearing more focused on personal recognition than pastoral responsibility. The Synod warned that such behavior risks distorting the Church’s mission and contributes to secularization, which it said compromises rather than promotes authentic ministry.

[![](https://uoj.news/content/images/2025/11/86922-australian-synod-acts-to-rein-in-clergy-influencers-image-99d43de64f6b.webp)On this topicAustralia to Ban Social Media Access for Users Under 16](https://uoj.news/news/85688-australia-to-ban-social-media-access-for-users-under-16/)

In response, the Synod will circulate a formal encyclical to clergy and monastics outlining expectations and boundaries. It emphasized that preaching and teaching are fundamentally the responsibility of the bishop and called for renewed spiritual focus. The Synod also concluded with prayers for peace worldwide and for the salvation of souls.

Previously, the [UOJ reported](https://uoj.news/news/85964-france-moves-to-ban-social-media-for-children-under-15/) that France moved to ban social media for children under 15.