In a gesture of solidarity and hope, Melbourne religious leaders came together on the steps of an East Melbourne synagogue to denounce antisemitism and affirm their shared commitment to unity, peace and mutual respect. Source: Melbourne Catholic.
The interfaith gathering followed the alleged arson attack on the synagogue in early July, as members of the Jewish community gathered for the Shabbat dinner. That same weekend, a protest outside an Israeli-owned restaurant turned aggressive fuelling community fears.
The gathering of interfaith leaders included senior representatives from the Melbourne's Jewish, Anglican, Catholic, Protestant, Muslim and broader interfaith communities.
These stood shoulder to shoulder with Rabbi Dovid Gurnick and Rabbi Ralph Genende on the steps of the synagogue. Rabbi Genende is a member of the Religious Advisory Committee to the Services (RACS) closely associated with the ADF.
The statement of support on the day read as follows: "To be able to stand together in healing and in reconciliation and in respect for one another is a message that is much needed for our city at this time. There is no place for intimidation. There is no place for violence by way of what we say or even by our actions "
Batu Gulani, a member of a Shia Muslim organisation and a member of the Victorian Multifaith Advisory group commented:
"An attack on a place of worship is an attack on the shared values of peace, safety and sacredness that unites all faiths" she said "we condemn such hateful acts and offer unwavering support for your right to gather, pray and live without fear."
The Interfaith group affirmed the "sacred right of people to protest in a democratic society, it also defended the "fundamental right of all citizens to feel safe and secure in Australian cities."
The Military Diocese stands in sociality with all Jewish members of the ADF, abhorring the evil of antisemitism in our wider community. We especially pray for Jewish Defence members and their families, undoubtedly gravely affected by the evil of antisemitism in the wider society. We pray that this scourge is not present within our Australian Defence community, and that all Jewish members of the ADF feel secure and respected in accordance with shared ADF values.
To read the full article please go to the link: https://melbournecatholic.org/news/no-place-for-hate-in-our-city-faith-leaders-call-for-peace