Visit of the National Council of Churches in Australia - NCCA

With thanks to our gracious Lord, the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Melbourne was blessed to receive representatives of the National Council of Churches in Australia - NCCA; Rev John Gilmore, President, and Ms Elizabeth Stone, General Secretary - at the Diocese Headquarters in Donvale, Victoria, on Friday 24 April 2026.

Rev John Gilmore and Ms Elizabeth Stone were warmly welcomed by His Grace Bishop Rewis, together with Very Rev Fr Abanoub Attalla and Very Rev Fr Shenouda Boutros. It is also worthy to note that, representing the Coptic Orthodox Church; Very Rev Fr Abanoub Attalla serves as a committee member of the National Council of Churches in Australia, while Very Rev Fr Shenouda Boutros serves as a committee member of the Victorian Council of Churches.

During the fruitful meeting, discussions were held regarding ecumenism in Australia and the continuing importance of Christian unity, cooperation and witness within our wider society. The representatives of the NCCA expressed their appreciation for the role of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Australia, and for its contribution to the spiritual, pastoral and community life of the nation.

As a gesture of love and respect, His Grace Bishop Rewis presented a Coptic icon to Reverend John Gilmore and Ms Elizabeth Stone.

His Grace Bishop Rewis together with the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Melbourne sincerely thanks Rev John Gilmore and Ms Elizabeth Stone for their warm, heartfelt and gracious visit to our Diocese. We pray that our Lord may bless the work of the National Council of Churches in Australia and guide all they do for the glory of His Holy Name.