The journey to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples is not easy, but the Catholic Church remains hopeful of healing. Source: ACBC Media Blog.
That is the message from Chair of the Bishops Commission for Relations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Bishop Charles Gauci, as Australians mark National Reconciliation Week.
“We are reminded that reconciliation is an ongoing journey,” Bishop Gauci said.
“There has been much that needs to be healed—there has been injustice, discrimination, dispossession, and all that accompanies these issues.”
Reflecting on the path forward, Bishop Gauci emphasised the importance of healing and progress.
“As we journey together, we must continue to heal from the past while also looking toward the future. We need to find effective ways to ensure the common good is shared by all people of this nation, especially our First Nations People.”
Bishop Gauci highlighted the critical areas that need attention to achieve equality.
“We need to narrow the gaps in life expectancy, housing, employment, and mental health,” he said. “There are no easy answers. We need to prayerfully reflect, be guided by the Holy Spirit, listen to each other with respect, and walk together to find the best way forward.”
Bishop Gauci called on the Church to play a pivotal role in this journey.
“We, as a Church, need to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth, working together to eliminate anything that prevents us from being brothers and sisters with equal dignity, equal opportunity, and equal rights,” he said.
The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council underscored the need for unity and collective action.
“Now more than ever, we need to place our trust and hopes in the Holy Spirit and come together as a nation, undivided. We are one people under God, each with our own gifts and strengths, and now is the time we, as a Church, show leadership through unity and purpose,” the Council said.
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Reconciliation is an ongoing journey (ACBC Media Blog)
