In the wake of ongoing violence in Gaza, Brisbane Deacon Gary Stone has written an open letter calling for Catholics and people of goodwill to unite in prayer and action for a just resolution to the conflict. Source: The Catholic Leader.
Deacon Stone, who founded the Veterans Care Association, offers his perspective as a soldier who has spent 48 years in the Australian Defence Force and Australian Federal Police — as a senior infantry officer, peacekeeper and more recently, as a Catholic chaplain.
“Today, I am deeply concerned not only for the people of Gaza and Israel but also for many of the veterans I care for here in Australia,” Deacon Stone said.
“They are being retraumatised – not just by the horrific events unfolding overseas, but by the polarised and often uninformed critique of factional groups within our own country.
“Our veterans have served with honour and sacrificed deeply for peace. They deserve understanding, not hostility; healing, not division.”
Deacon Stone said veterans “know there is no simple or quick fix to this complex situation” but the situation is now “beyond catastrophic”.
“We must rise up as humanity to take whatever measures are needed stop the fighting and get humanitarian aid flowing,” he said.
“But in due course, there must be a glimmer of hope for movement toward a just and lasting solution that honours the dignity and rights of all people in the region.
“Trained and practiced as a military strategist, I can confirm that continued combat in Gaza is counterproductive to all concerned.”
Deacon Stone appealed to “Catholics and Christians across Australia, and to all people of goodwill, to unite in prayer and action”.
“ Let us:
- Pray for peace in Gaza and for healing among all who suffer.
- Speak with compassion and courage to promote understanding and reject hatred.
- Advocate by contacting elected officials and community leaders urging them to support diplomatic efforts and humanitarian aid for civilians affected by the conflict.
- Gather in interfaith and community events that foster dialogue, solidarity, and reconciliation.
- Support reputable humanitarian organisations working on the ground to provide relief and protect the vulnerable.
“Let us also commit ourselves to peaceable conduct here at home, especially in our conversations with those who may hold different views.”
FULL STORY
A call to peace, compassion and unity from veteran peacemaker Deacon Gary Stone (The Catholic Leader)
