Ukrainian and Armenian Bishops met in Melbourne

Bishop Vardan, who has recently begun his ministry in Australia, met with His Eminence Mykola Cardinal Bychok, Eparch of Melbourne, and the Eparchy’s Vicar General, Fr. Simon Ckuj.

During the meeting, Bishop Vardan expressed his desire to meet Cardinal Mykola as the representative of the Ukrainian Church, highlighting the strong parallels between the Armenian and Ukrainian peoples, both of whom endured the tragedies of genocide and displacement from their homelands.

Cardinal Mykolas thanked Bishop Vardan for his visit and emphasised the importance of developing cooperation, especially between the Eastern Churches. “Here in Australia, we face very similar challenges: the secularisation of society and the assimilation of our faithful. We face the task of preserving our Christian roots far from the Mother Church. The issue of peace in our homelands is also key for our Churches. Therefore, it is very important to support each other and share experiences,” said Bishop Mykola.

The hierarchs also agreed that, when the opportunity arises, the Cardinal will visit Bishop Vardan in Sydney. The meeting concluded with an exchange of gifts as a sign of friendship and mutual respect.

See also

January 15 “May this place become holy ground, where heaven and earth meet, and where the Church is continually upheld by prayer” December 29 The Jubilee Year of Hope Solemnly Concluded in Melbourne December 24 Bishop Mykola’s Christmas Greeting