In the 2024 – 2025 Social Justice Statement, “Truth and Peace: A Gospel Word in a Violent World”, Australia’s Bishops scrutinise the signs of our own troubled times, observe the violence around us, and ask why it is so. They also ask what is needed if there is to be peace.
The need for peace in Palestine and Israel is paramount, as the longstanding conflict between Israelis and Palestinians has led to immense human suffering, loss of life, and instability in the region.
Amidst the chaos and suffering in Gaza, Christian voices around the world echo the teachings of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, and call for a ceasefire.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands as a double-edged sword in the quest for global peace. On one hand, its potential as a tool for diplomacy, conflict resolution, and humanitarian aid is immense. On the other, the unchecked proliferation of AI poses significant dangers, echoing the concerns of Pope Francis regarding a technocratic paradigm. As we navigate this terrain, understanding both aspects is crucial for a harmonious future.
Last week, the Prime Ministers of Australia, Canada and New Zealand issued a joint statement calling on the Israeli Government to initiate an immediate ceasefire in its war on Hamas. The statement comes as Israel prepares for a ground operation in Rafah.
The Pope calls for a ceasefire amidst the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He also calls for a day of prayer and fasting this Friday 27 October.
In a world that often seems divided by differences and inequalities, we come together together each year to observe two important events: Anti-Poverty Week and the World Day of the Poor.
In This years Social Justice Statement, Australia’s Bishops invite us to renew our engagement with the First Peoples of Australia. They have come to this view through much listening to the First Peoples and they encourage us all to listen to them in a spirit of love and humility.
We explore Pope Francis’ prayer intention for April which focusses on non-violence.
Peter Arndt, Director of the Office reflects on Advent and particularly on seeing God with us each day. The hustle and bustle of this time of year can stop us seeing and hearing God in our day-to-day lives. He urges us to keep Christ in our celebrations of Christmas by remembering and including people excluded from society and our brother and sisters in the environment in our celebrations. Peter farewells Patrice Moriarty who is moving on from her support of the Office.