GOCSA rejects Archdiocese accession

28 October 2024 The extraordinary general meeting of the Greek Orthodox Community South Australia, held Sunday 27 October in the afternoon, rejected the Administrative Council’s (AC) motions for constitutional changes and a deed that would pave the way for the historic Community’s accession to the Archdiocese of Australia. The approximately 500 members who packed the Olympic Hall heard the proposals brought by the AC for approval and an intense debate took place on several controversial points. The main points of contention were, the proposal that the council should have the right after a general meeting to sell or transfer community property after five years. What caused intense criticism was the word “transfer”. Also, intense controversy surrounded the proposal that in the event of conflict and disagreement between the Community and the clergy (though the priests are paid by GOCSA), the Archbishop would have the final say and his decision would be final and binding on the Community. Additionally, there was no guarantee from the archdiocese that the current GOCSA priests would keep their positions in the community churches. As for the fate of the priests, the Archbishop would make the final decision after the signing of the agreement. Among other controversial points in the agreement which were strongly protested by the members, was the paragraph according to which, in order for the Community to leave the agreement, it must give a two years’ notice, while the Archdiocese can break the agreement with sixty days’ notice before withdrawing the priests. On the other hand, interventions were made by members who argued that the approval of the three motions put forward by the Council would help to bring “unity” under the auspices of the Archdiocese. With the exception of the proposal for the Community assets, which was approved, the main proposals concerning the withdrawal from the Autocephaly and joining the Archdiocese were rejected at a percentage of around 61%. According to the Administrative Council’s agenda, the motions required at least 75% support to be passed. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING ADJOURNED In an unprecedented development, the annual general meeting which started at 3.00pm on November 17 at the Olympic Hall has been adjourned to continue in December. Following member protests that they did not receive the Board’s reports in time, the meeting was adjourned with a members’ motion that was approved by the overwhelming majority.

Greek Tribune Adelaide, South Australia