One fascinating aspect of religious development is the phenomenon of syncretism, which refers to the merging or blending of different religious beliefs, practices, and rituals. The concept of syncretism challenges the notion of religion as a rigid and exclusive system, instead emphasizing the fluidity and adaptability of human spirituality, writes Dr Adis Duderija of the Griffith University Multifaith Centre.
RfPA
Immigration: Changes to the Minister of Religion Labour Agreement
Changes to the Minister of Religion Labour Agreement (MORLA) settings now allow religious institutions to sponsor overseas workers under the occupation Religious Assistant (ANZSCO 451816). This new initiative broadens visa sponsorship options that were formerly limited to the occupation of ‘Minister of Religion’.
Religions for Peace Statement on Assyrian Church Stabbing
The leadership team of Religions for Peace Australia (comprised of Buddhist, Christian, Quaker, Hindu, Muslim, Brahma Kumaris and Jewish faith leaders) have come together to consider the needs of our nation and the strengthening of social cohesion. Many issues have been exposed by this event. In faithful response, Religions for Peace Australia issues a call addressing faith community needs along with steps towards harmony and protection of the community.
Sydney church stabbing
Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel was stabbed repeatedly at a mass at the Assyrian Christ the Good Shepherd church in Wakeley just after 7pm on Monday.
A live stream of the mass on the church’s website showed a person approaching the altar who then appeared to stab toward the bishop’s head multiple times.
The 16-year-old perpetrator is in police custody. He made reference to “his religion’ which causes authorities to declare this was a terrorist event
Vatican official to speak on Interreligious Dialogue in Parramatta
The Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations and the Diocese of Parramatta will welcome Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald M.Afr.OBE on Wednesday 8 May 2024 for a free public lecture entitled: “Interreligious Dialogue in our Day: 60 Years after Nostra Aetate” at St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall, Parramatta.
Tasmania April 2024
Greetings of peace and Eid Mubarak, blessed festival, for the celebration of the end of Ramadan!
Steps Leading Towards Harmony: World Interfaith Harmony Week Lecture
Religions for Peace Australia and Canberra Interfaith Forum hosted the annual World Interfaith Harmony Week Lecture at Parliament House, Canberra on 28 February 2024. The Guest Speaker was Dr. Pal Dhall, International speaker and presenter on Human Values with experience integrating ethics and human values of mankind’s religions to create harmony and peace in society and culture.
Our Earth – how do we work together to heal the devastation of war and create hope for our children?
A talk will be given by visiting Palestinian Christian ecologist, Professor Mazin Qumsiyeh on Monday evening, 22 April 2024. This interfaith gathering is a collaboration between Interfaith Matters! Forum, Multifaith SA and Religions for Peace Australia.
Growing number of men in outback mining hub of Mount Isa turning to yoga for mental health
Men in the outback mining industry are turning to yoga to help deal with stress and mental health.
Advocates say a Mount Isa yoga program is helping to fill major gaps in outback mental health services, especially for men.
The local leader of the program is hoping to see even more men take to the yoga mat.
Quakers Australia – Integrity in Public Office – Canberra, 2024
On Thursday 28th February 2024, Quakers Australia held an action “Show integrity in Public Office” at Parliament House in Canberra. This was the fourth undertaking by Quakers Australia on this critical issue.
Religions for Peace NSW Branch Meeting
The NSW Branch of Religions for Peace will next meet on Monday 11 March at the Vedanta Hall, Croydon from 10-12:00 concluding with lunch. Theme of the meeting will be Steps Towards Harmony.
NSW: Buddhist Studies Seminar
The Australian Association of Buddhist studies will hold its next event on Thursday 14 March. The topic will explore the evolution of Humanistic Buddhism from its Chinese origins, emphasising its foundational aim to apply Buddhist teachings practically and compassionately in the contemporary world. This will be a hybrid session.