The “Lifegiving Spring” Monastery in Melbourne hosted the annual meeting of the Diocesan Assembly of the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Australia and New Zealand last weekend.
On Saturday, Bishop Mihail led the clergy of the two deaneries in celebrating the Divine Liturgy and a Te Deum service to celebrate the Union of the Romanian Principalities.
Subsequent to evening services, the Diocesan Council convened, focusing on the themes set for the Solemn and Commemorative Year 2025. The meeting included a review of parish activity reports and an overall assessment of diocesan operations.
On Sunday, following the Divine Liturgy, the Assembly reviewed and approved the Council’s reports. Bishop Mihail highlighted the importance of liturgical service, faith education through sermons and catechesis, and the publication of parish bulletins to enhance the church’s mission within communities.
“Various aspects of pastoral-missionary activity were addressed, emphasizing liturgical service, the teaching of faith through sermons, catechesis, and Sunday schools, as well as the need for publishing parish bulletins and, in general, intensifying the Church’s mission within parish communities,” noted His Grace Bishop Mihail of Australia and New Zealand.
The discussions also tackled practical challenges faced by Romanian parishes across Australia and New Zealand.
Established in 2007 under the direct jurisdiction of the Romanian Patriarchate, the diocese oversees the Deanery of Australia, comprising 14 parishes with eight more in development and one monastery, and the Deanery of New Zealand with five parishes and two emerging communities.
For more pictures please visit the diocese’s official website.
Photo: Romanian Diocese of Australia and New Zealand / Peter Cristea
