On the evening of Shrove Tuesday (4 March), Bishop Shane joined 100 leaders from various Christian traditions at a cocktail reception hosted by our Premier, The Honourable Jacinta Allan to acknowledge the contribution of Christian Churches to the Victorian community. 

The Premier initiated the event to meet Victorian Christian Leaders face-to-face and build on the important relationship between Christian communities and the Victorian Government, especially in health, education and social services.

The event highlighted the importance of Christian unity and the common values that unite all Christians, despite different traditions. United, Christian communities can build even better bridges of reconciliation and provide support for those in need, especially as geopolitical tensions continue, too often with disastrous consequences.

Addressing the gathering on behalf of the Greek Orthodox Church, Bishop Evmenios of Chora, focused on Lent as not only a time to reflect and pray as individuals, but also a time to act collectively for justice and the common good.

This year marks the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, a pivotal event in the history of Christianity that took place in 325 AD. The event brought together bishops from across the Christian world to iron out theological issues of difference. The Council defined the fundamental principles of the Christian Church – the Nicene Creed which we, and Christians from other traditions, still proclaim at Sunday Mass today.

Image above: Premier Jacinta Allan chats with Bishop Shane Mackinlay at the event.  [Supplied by the Department of Premier and Cabinet].

 Fun Fact: Premier Jacinta Allan was educated at St Joseph's Primary School in Quarry Hill and Catholic College Bendigo.