The World Council of Churches in collaboration with the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue have prepared a document on interreligious collaboration during the time of coronavirus. In this article, we bring you the Preamble, focussed on the story of the Good Samaritan, a profound and challenging story of human response to suffering. We include a synopsis of the world situation.
News
WCC, Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue release “Serving a Wounded World” document
The World Council of Churches and the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue have released a joint document, “Serving a Wounded World in Interreligious Solidarity: A Christian Call to Reflection and Action During COVID-19 and Beyond.” Its purpose is to encourage churches and Christian organizations to reflect on the importance of interreligious solidarity in a world wounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.
New Report about Conscientious Objection
Washington, DC – The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) today released the a new legislation factsheet about conscientious objection, which is the right to refuse military service based on religious beliefs.
Australian celebrities join forces to combat racism in new campaign
Hugh Jackman, Margot Robbie, Nick Kyrgios, Ben Simmons and Sam Kerr are among the Australian celebrities featured in the new DoMore anti-racism campaign. #DoMore is a call to action for Australians wanting to be more informed, more educated, and more engaged in challenging racism. The #DoMore Project will use the stories of Australians of all backgrounds to challenge existing beliefs and raise awareness of the impact of racism. By understanding how we can all do more, we’ll help create an equal future for all Australians.
Podcast shares how faith communities can boost mental health among youth
Anxiety, stress and unexpected changes in lifestyles are making it increasingly difficult for many youngsters to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. Alcohol and substance abuse are on the rise as young people desperately search for answers to what is happening around them. Mental health issues are rapidly following In the wake of the physical health and socio-economic issues caused by COVID-19.
People who live close to Muslims are less likely to be fearful of Islam
A study of attitudes of people who live nearby Muslims in Sydney and Melbourne has found that neighbours and so forth are less likely to be mistrustful of Muslims, and more likely to be tolerant of difference. The Conversation news media has conducted a study, Non-Muslims who live close to Muslims are less likely to be Islamophobic. We republish this study for your reading, on this website.
Australia’s faith leaders are split over the use of foetal cells in a coronavirus vaccine
While some religious leaders in Australia have voiced ethical concerns over the potential Oxford vaccine, others say they are not worried. Jewish, Hindu and Islamic leaders in Australia say they would welcome the Oxford University coronavirus vaccine if it is successful, despite other religious leaders raising ethical concerns over the use of cell lines from an electively aborted foetus.
Light in the Darkness ~ Time Out for a Suffering World
The Faith Communities Council of Victoria and the Victorian Council of Churches invite you to: Light in the Darkness ~ Time Out for a Suffering World Date: Monday 31 August 2020 Time: 7pm Location: In your home On the eve of Spring, an invitation from the faith communities of Victoria to be a light in … Read more
Marking The International Day Commemorating The Victims Of Acts Of Violence Based On Religion Or Belief
On August 22, the UN marks the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, a day designated by the UN for states to step up their efforts to combat intolerance, discrimination and violence against persons based on religion or belief. Establishing the day was a direct response to the ever-growing issue of violence based on religion or belief, including in their most severe manifestations of international crimes, as crimes against humanity, war crimes and even genocide.
Creating a Space for Meditation
Rather than make our lives more relaxed and more simple, technology seems to have complicated them. We seem to always be connected through texts, calls, emails and social media. There may be instant messages from our employers to respond to. In addition, many people get news and weather alerts directly sent to their smartphones. Today, we are often asked to do so much more, and even increasing our personal obligations make decompressing more difficult. How do we make time, create space for our true selves???
Sikh Focus Group: Preventing Family Violence
The Victorian Sikhs Gurduaras Council will undertake an online project to work with the Victorian Sikh Community to establish strong foundations for ongoing community work to prevent family violence.
The BDS Activists in the Black Lives Matter movement
The NSW Board of Jewish Deputies along with the Jewish Community Council of Victoria will host an online event exploring the Black Lives Matter movement, simmering racial tensions, accusing Israel of complicity in the Floyd murder. This is an online event, 27th of August 2020.
