The proceedings of the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Archdiocese of Australia, which convened from the 14th until today, 16 April 2026, under the presidency of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia for its regular session during the Pentecostarion period, have been completed. The Holy Synod thoroughly examined the matters on the agenda and adopted the appropriate ecclesiastical and canonical decisions.
Among other matters, the Synod addressed the phenomenon of an increasing tendency among certain clergy to promote themselves on social media as preachers and teachers, seeking rather the glory of modern so-called “influencers” than expressing genuine concern for the salvation of souls. It was emphasised that preaching and teaching are primarily and fundamentally the responsibility of the Bishop. For this reason, the Holy Eparchial Synod will issue a Synodal Encyclical to all clergy and monastics of the Archdiocese of Australia, with specific directives, in order to put an end to this phenomenon of secularisation, which tends more to expose than to promote the Church and its pastoral ministry.
Finally, the Holy Eparchial Synod prays for the peace of the whole world, and especially for peace in the souls of all people, as we likewise beseech in every Divine Liturgy: “for the peace from above and for the salvation of our souls.”
Sydney, 16 April 2026
From the Chief Secretariat of the Holy Eparchial Synod