H.E. Metropolitan Basilios Pastoral Visit to Queensland

July 5th-7th | Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Our parishes and missions in Queensland were blessed by the annual pastoral visit of our Chief Shepherd Metropolitan Basilios Kodseie, to St Paul’s, Antiochian Orthodox Church in Brisbane this past weekend. His visit was primarily to celebrate the feast of Saints Peter and Paul with us, and to discuss spiritual and administrative matters pertaining to both the Archdiocese and the faithful.

Prayer and Fellowship

His Eminence, together with the clergy from Queensland shared in prayer and fellowship, commencing with a Vigil night on Friday evening for the feast of Saints Peter and Paul. Providing some words of spiritual encouragement, His Eminence spoke on the different missions of Saints Peter and Paul, how they both established the ancient See of Antioch and how vital they are to us today.

On Youth, Education, & Welfare in QLD

On Saturday morning His Eminence met the Queensland branch of ACOY and Sunday School. In a spirit of love and fellowship His Eminence presented a report outlining the achievements of the Archdiocese in administrative and educational support for both the Youth and Sunday Schools in the Archdiocese. The Youth committee and Sunday School Leaders in turn presented a summary of the activities at St Paul’s and their plans for the upcoming 2019 Queensland youth retreat. Representatives from the Community Kitchen presented His Eminence with an update on their mission and how they are feeding and serving the needs of the homeless in Brisbane. His Eminence concluded the session with some advice and guidance on the future direction of the Youth and Sunday School.

Fatherly Direction

His Eminence then met with the parish council, presenting a report on the foundational and administrative work that has been done at the Archdiocese level. The parish council discussed several pastoral issues, particularly seeking guidance on future projects of St. Paul’s. His Eminence also met with the Ladies society thanking them for their great work in supporting the parish. Saturday was concluded with the celebration of Great Vespers, commemorating St. Kyriaki, followed by supper.

The Work of the People- Liturgy

The culmination of the weekend was achieved on Sunday by the celebration of the Divine Liturgy with His Eminence. The parish of St Paul’s was blessed both by the attendance of His Eminence, as well as the attendance of St. Mary Magdalene’s Mission from the Sunshine Coast as well as members of the faithful travelling from the Gold Coast, Toowoomba and even as far north as Gympie.

No words are sufficient to express the love and heartfelt appreciation of the members of the faithful in Queensland towards His Eminence for making time to visit us. We continually ask and pray for his prayer, guidance and stewardship.

May God grant Him many years!