Australian guests in Greece
14 May 25
Grand Lodge of Greece Installation
A distinguished delegation from the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory participated in the Grand Installation of the Grand Lodge of Greece on Saturday, 22 February 2025.
The official program began with a pre-Installation dinner on Thursday, 20 February, held at the prestigious Athens Club. This exclusive event set the tone for the celebrations, bringing together masonic leaders from around the world. The Australian delegation, comprising myself and the Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies and Grand Steward, W Bro Fonda Stoubidis, was warmly received by the Grand Master and Installing Grand Master, MW Bro Michael Mattes. The event showcased the strong international bonds within Freemasonry.
On the following day, Friday, 21 February, the delegation attended a meet-and-greet session at the Radisson Blu Park Hotel in Athens. The gathering featured the exchange of gifts and masonic pins, an important tradition that fosters unity and camaraderie among masons.
Reflecting on the experience, VW Bro Emmanuel Konitopoulos remarked: ‘It was an unforgettable day that I will always hold dear.’ Bro Konitopoulos was warmly received by the newly installed Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Greece, MW Bro George Biniaris, who greeted him with a handshake and a heartfelt embrace. During this meeting, VW Bro Konitopoulos conveyed fraternal greetings from Grand Master MW Bro Khris Albano.
The Grand Installation ceremony took place at the Intercontinental Athenaeum Athens Hotel, which had been specially transformed for the occasion. Over 500 masons attended the formal installation, with an additional 800 masons and their partners gathering for the evening gala. This event, a highlight of the masonic calendar, brought together Greek masons and representatives from 38 foreign masonic delegations.
The event was not just a celebration of Freemasonry but also a reflection of the strength and significance of international masonic relations. These global connections, built on shared values and mutual respect, help forge lifelong friendships.
The Australian delegation’s participation in the Grand Lodge of Greece’s Grand Installation further emphasized the vital role of international masonic cooperation in promoting understanding and unity among masons worldwide.
As the Australian delegation returned home, they carried with them not only cherished memories of an unforgettable experience but also strengthened ties with their international brethren – a testament to the enduring power of masonic fraternity and the lasting friendships it nurtures.
By VW Bro Emmanuel Konitopoulos
Above - Flags of friendship on parade
Above - Part of the Australian delegation