Koutsantonis Defends Priest, Church Responds

0:00In Adelaide, it's March 12th, and here's what is going on. South Australian treasurer Tom Cousin-Tonus has stirred up tension in Adelaide's Greek Orthodox community over the resignation of a long-time priestess, the Church of St. George, father-diageness Pesaurus, an 85-year-old who served there for 56 years, stepped down from his role as lead administrator in February. The priest told parishioners he had been relieved of duties by church leaders, but chose to resign instead of facing dismissal. This came after 56 years at the parish out of his 60 years as a priest. Cousin-Tonus shared his personal feelings online, highlighting the priest's role in family milestones like baptisms, weddings, and funerals over. Decades, many in the community echoed his sense of loss and confusion. Church officials quickly responded, urging the treasurer to stay out of internal church matters. They clarified that the priest was only replaced in his administrative position and could still lead services there, calling his departure his own.

1:01Choice, Cousin-Tonus stood firm in a follow-up statement, praising the priest's lifelong service while reaffirming his support for church leadership and community unity. The exchange has highlighted deep respect for the veteran cleric amid the debate. D&N is sponsored by our partner. Do not just listen to podcasts. Get lost in them comfortably, S-O-L-I. SoleyPillow.com