17/12/2025
The Seventh-day Adventist Church across Australia expresses sympathy and deep sadness to everyone impacted by the violent attack at Bondi. We grieve alongside those who have lost loved ones and particularly empathise with the Jewish community that were targeted by this hatred.
Acts of terrorism embody darkness and demonstrate the worst of our humanity. At the same time, seeing citizens, our police, and health professionals step up to protect and help one another highlights some of the best values of our community. We thank and commend those who have responded with courage and compassion.
At this time of year, when we celebrate light coming into the world, the events at Bondi were brought about by violent darkness. May Christ’s light shine through us amidst the darkness, may His love draw us closer to Him and to one another as we seek to support and care for our brothers and sisters, irrespective of race or creed.
We stand in support of the right of all faith communities to worship and conduct cultural events in safety. We seek to bring peace in the face of hatred and to model a humanity that embraces community over division and violence.
We pray healing for the broken-hearted (Psalm 147:3) and look forward to a time when God will wipe away every tear, and there will be no more death (Revelation 21:4).
What are some practical steps we can take at such a time as this?
Donate blood, if you can
Pray for the friends and families of the victims.
Pray for essential services working tirelessly in the aftermath of this tragic event.
Pray for both Jewish and Muslim leaders as they navigate the next steps.
Reaffirm your commitment to bring the fruits of the Spirit, including love, peace, kindness, gentleness, and self-control, into your sphere of influence.
If and where possible, reach out to those you may know from the Jewish and Muslim communities to offer condolences, prayers, and support.
May the broken-hearted be surrounded by love. May light outshine the darkness. May we contribute to a better, more loving Australia.
God bless
Brendan
Dr Brendan Pratt
President Australian Union of the Seventh-day Adventist Church