Ecumenical Patriarch’s Visit to St John’s College

The recent visit of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to St John’s College was a moment of profound significance, not only for our school but for the broader Greek Orthodox community in Australia. As the only school the Patriarch visited during his time here, this once-in-a-generation occasion formed part of the 100-year anniversary celebrations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in Australia. It provided a rare opportunity for our community to unite in a shared expression of faith and cultural pride. Read more about it here.

An event of this scale required months of careful planning and close communication between both internal and external stakeholders. Coordinating between our school community and external organisations was crucial in ensuring that everything came together seamlessly. The importance of teamwork and collaboration among colleagues was at the heart of this process. Every detail, from logistics to student performances, relied on a collective effort, and the success of the event was a true reflection of the dedication and professionalism of everyone involved.

The historic nature of this visit cannot be overstated. It was not only a spiritual milestone but also a profound opportunity to strengthen the identity of our school. Events like this allow us to reinforce our cultural and spiritual values while bringing together a diverse range of people within our community. The power of community engagement was palpable, as we worked together to create a meaningful and memorable experience for everyone present.

The visit also highlighted the importance of school identity—an identity that is deeply rooted in cultural heritage, faith, and a shared sense of belonging. Investing in student identity is essential for shaping confident, grounded individuals who carry the values of their community with them into the world. When students feel connected to their community, their heritage, and their school, they are empowered to be ambassadors of their values and principles.

In the end, the Patriarch’s visit was not only a spiritual highlight but also a reminder of the strength that comes from working together as a community. Through collaboration, shared purpose, and a commitment to excellence, we were able to create a day that will be remembered for years to come. It has strengthened the ties within our school and the wider community, reminding us all of the power of community engagement and the importance of investing in our shared identity.