The Australian Catholic Bishops say the current social division in society represents an opportunity to witness to the Gospel, in order to build a more cohesive society.
Each year since 1940, the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference has issued a statement for reflection and discussion in the lead-up to Social Justice Sunday (August 30) on a key issue in society. The latest statement, Living the Gospel in Times of Social Division, was released in Brisbane on Friday.
In it, the Bishops acknowledge we are living through an era of heightened
community tension and a growing normalisation
of abusive behaviour, incendiary language and
violence, but believe this is a great chance for people to encounter the Good News of Jesus.
“This statement invites us to see our current social climate as an opportunity to witness to the Gospel,” writes Conference President, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB in the preface to the statement.
“We offer Jesus and the hope born of his death and resurrection. When we choose forgiveness over enmity, hospitality over isolation and solidarity over vilification, we help to create the conditions in which a more peaceful society can prosper.”
In particular, the statement calls out the rise in antisemitism which culminated in the Bondi Beach attack, an act of "shocking deadly violence".
Bishops Commission for Social Justice, Mission and Service chair, Bishop Tim Harris, said the Church had a key role to play in building a culture of listening and inclusion.
“Our starting point is the conviction that every person is created in the image and likeness of God and possesses an inherent dignity that can never be diminished by race, religion, culture, language or background,” he said.
“The Church serves society best when it creates spaces where people can encounter one another as neighbours rather than strangers."
The statement encourages people to become "salt" and "light" by remaining close to Christ, practising a culture of encounter, exercising restraint and by concrete acts of compassion.
“Australia has been enriched by successive generations of migrants, refugees and First Nations peoples whose stories form part of our national identity. Yet social cohesion cannot be taken for granted. It must be renewed through acts of solidarity, hospitality and mutual understanding," said Bishop Harris.
“Listening is especially important. Genuine listening does not require us to agree on every issue, but it does require recognition of the dignity of those with whom we disagree.
“The Church can and must be a sign of unity: a community where every person feels at home and all are encouraged to use their gifts to build a more just, peaceful and cohesive Australia.”
A full copy of the statement can be read here.
