Sir Peter Cosgrove, one of Australia’s most celebrated and decorated Catholics, has pressed the need for a spirit of service to the Church and the broader community. Source: The Catholic Weekly.
The former governor-general briefed the Sydney Catholic Business Network on February 23 in a Q&A-style address on national security, geopolitics and of Australia’s standing as a nation that rises to any challenge in the pursuit of peace.
Sir Peter spoke of conflict as the ultimate failure of diplomacy, and that we must always strive to find a peaceful course where one is available.
The former Chief of Army and Chief of the Australian Defence Force also alluded to the predilection of past generations to ignore our own region in favour of the politics of Europe, and the required change in focus to pay greater attention to relationships and priorities in our own backyard.
Sir Peter also talked about the need to continue commemorating Australian service people on ANZAC Day by speaking of a “time and place” to honour those for their sacrifice, while also taking time to celebrate the values and beliefs that make Australia a nation worth striving to serve.
Introducing Sir Peter to the business network, Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP said the audience benefited from hearing reflections from a “true servant leader” who has always aimed to live out his Christian faith.
“It was great to hear Sir Peter’s analysis of the current security challenges facing Australia and our region,” Archbishop Fisher said.
“He was able to do this in the context of the history of Australia’s involvement in different theatres of war and peacekeeping operations.
“He brings a truly unique perspective as a soldier and also from his time as governor-general.
“He is a man who has lived out the Christian call to serve others and he has done this at the highest level.”
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Cosgrove: Australia strives for the pursuit of peace (The Catholic Weekly)
