The Australian government has announced changes to its coronavirus support measures but those on temporary visas still won’t qualify, with advocates warning many are facing destitution.
Hagia Sophia – Official Statement of the Islamic Society of North America
We need to work together to convince President Erdogan not to convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia was built as a Church and a pride of Greek Orthodox Church which commands the loyalty of Greek Orthodox Christians counting some 300 million in Greece, Turkey and around the world. Russian Orthodox Church which is a splinter of Greek Orthodox continues to jointly have a sacred sentiment for Hagia Sophia.
Does the Pandemic Challenge your Faith?
The global coronavirus pandemic, which has brought death to hundreds of thousands, serious illness to millions more, and financial hardship to the whole world, also poses profound spiritual questions and real challenges to Christians everywhere.
From King to Gandhi, racial justice means all faiths matter
(RNS) — Recently, my Muslim family joined a Hindu family and a Jewish family at a protest for racial equity near our home on the North Side of Chicago. A couple of days ago, my older son and I went to an event on the near South Side with fellow Muslims. As we talked about the verses of the Quran and the values of Islam that inspired our involvement, I made sure to point out the people wearing crosses around their necks, the clergy with collars or kippahs, the religious scripture prominently displayed on several signs.
Meditations for a Time of Isolation
People react to situations and enclosure differently. Some go within and reflect; others go out and spend energy, and thus, recharge themselves. Still more get out and walk, and notice their environment mindfully. Those who need contact get onto the electronic devices and get facetime with their cherished. More get out in the garden, the green-fingers! There are those who look to others for help and guidance. Here, we bring you a selected series of meditations for your ease and reduction in anxiety and fear: S/he who manages their mind manages their anxiety and fear – and create a positive environment for self and others. We offer this to you for your exploration, sample, and peace.
Lockdown: Lakemba Mosque, Sydney, NSW
In Australia, religious communities were one part of society expressly impacted by the ‘lockdown’ directives introduced to stem the spread of the virus. On 29 March all places of religious worship were effectively closed by the restrictions that limited non-essential indoor gatherings to two people. In Victoria, lockdown came again on 9th of July, with border closures. Here, we look to faith community experiences in time of lockdown. On this page, we look to the experience of the members of the Muslim community at Lakemba Mosque, Auburn, Sydney, NSW.
Victoria: New Human Rights Website
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission launched a new website, accompanied by a refreshed organisational brand.
Victoria: Racism unequivocally condemned
The Victorian Multicultural Commission unequivocally condemns racism and commits to taking a leadership role in addressing racism in Victoria. We unequivocally condemn all forms of racism, vilification or discrimination directed at someone because of their colour, ethnicity, faith or national origin.
Crimestoppers Podcast – International Students Experience
Crime Stoppers Victoria have today released a two-episode podcast series focusing on international students and their feelings towards safety and crime here in Melbourne. Titled ‘A Home Away From Home’, the podcast explores several aspects to the international student experience, ranging from choosing Australia as a study destination, safety, reporting crime and racism following the outbreak of Covid-19.
Victoria: Advice on Wearing a Mask
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer has updated his advice to recommend anyone living in metro Melbourne or Mitchell Shire to wear a face covering or cloth mask when leaving home for one of the four permitted reasons – where it is not possible to maintain a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people.
Christian Leaders write to G20 Finance Ministers
Four global organizations representing some 500 million Christians have written an urgent letter to G20 leaders, calling for them to leave behind the current broken financial architecture and promote a truly just and sustainable recovery.
NSW: Makkah to Madina Exhibition – A journey of a lifetime
Sadly, this year, the pilgrimage to Makkah has been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. Relive the journey of a lifetime with Australia’s largest Islamic Exhibition. For the first time ever in Sydney, experience the migration of the prophet from Makkah to Madina. Featuring intricate 3D models, guided tours and a large 3D scaled model of the Ka’bah. Walk in the cave of Hira model and witness the real size of the Cave of Thawr. Sessions are at Padstow, 24 and 25 July 2020.
