17/10/2024

Assyrian Church of the East Patriarch Mar Awa III Royel visits Parliament of Victoria, Australia, discusses religious freedom and Christian education project

MELBOURNE —Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East Mar Awa III Royel made an official visit to the Parliament of Victoria, Australia, where he was hosted by MP Ivan Mulholland, representative for the North District of the Capital. Accompanying the Patriarch were Bishop of Victoria and New Zealand and Secretary of the Synodic Council Mar Benjamin Elia, Bishop of Baghdad Mar Elia Isehac, and Father Antoine Eremiah, parish priest of Mar Odisho Church in Melbourne.

During the visit, Patriarch Mar Awa III and his delegation met with members of the Parliament of Victoria, where discussions centered around issues of religious freedom and the rights of religious minorities in the state. The delegation also addressed concerns over ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and their profound impact on Christian communities in the region.

One of the key topics of discussion was the proposed establishment of Mar Yoseph Christian College, a project affiliated with the Assyrian Church of the East, which aims to enhance education opportunities for the Christian community in Victoria.

Following the meeting, the Patriarch and his delegation were hosted at a luncheon, where they received a tour highlighting the historical significance of the Parliament building. In recognition of this important visit, an appreciation award was presented to Patriarch Mar Awa III.