The Sydney Statement

25/08/2026

Only one more day to register for an amazing opportunity!

In the present context of rampaging antisemitism and Islamophobia, of misinformation and disinformation, "Window on the World's Religions" presents accurate information on Judaism and Islam from the believers who live these faiths.

Teams of Jews and Muslims will present an immersive, engaging, personal encounter through talk, video, show & tell, and Q & A.

When: Thursday 27 August 2026 / 6.00 pm to 9.15 pm
Where: Bishop Bede Heather Centre, 1-5 Marion Street, Blacktown

Seats limited! Don't miss out! Get in early! Only $10.00 to cover refreshments. Click the post to register.

An immersive, multi-faceted personal encounter with Jews and Muslims; learn their authentic beliefs and practices; counter rising antisemitism and Islamophobia.

21/08/2026

"How Can the Healing Begin?" https://l1nq.com/tf9dyyo

I am astonished that this profound, intellectual, cogent, honest, courageous, and heartfelt reflection has been ignored. I happened across it by accident on Facebook. I immediately recognised it as essential reading for anyone concerned about social cohesion.

I met the author a week after the paper was published and complimented him on it. He told me I was the first person in Australia to mention the paper to him. I have not seen any reference to the paper in the month since, not in mainstream media, not in social media, not anywhere. Silence. I am shocked.

In a time when many religious and community leaders are so consumed by their own legitimate concerns that they become "tribal", caught up in the echo chamber of their own silos, with little or no capacity for empathy for the 'other' - who ironically bears the same or similar suffering - and sometimes indulge in blaming, deepening the polarisation and division that is tearing our society apart, Aftab Malik provides a refreshing alternative.

He shows compassion for the other. He acknowledges perceived failings. He analyses their true origin. He provides a calm and measured defence. He urges a shared, compassionate, listening, collaborative approach that will take time, patience, and perseverance.

"Against the backdrop of anger, disinformation, conspiracy theories, confusion, anti-immigration rallies, racism, hatred of people based on their faith identities, dehumanisation and blame, we must resist the forces that divide us. We need wisdom, compassion, mercy, empathy and the moral courage to have tough conversations without demonising one another. We need to overcome feelings of hostility and fear. There can no longer be “you” and “me”. There can only be us."

For endorsements and to download see: https://www.oseci.gov.au/resources/oseci-papers

17/08/2026

Join us for a unique, interactive interfaith experience in Western Sydney on Thursday 27 August, 6.00 pm!

Step through a portal of discovery for personal encounters with local Jewish and Muslim community members. This isn't just a lecture series, it's an immersive show-and-tell experience featuring talks, authentic artefacts, video clips, panel discussions, and open Q&As designed to foster real connection and shared humanity.

Whether you want to deepen your understanding or meet people from different cultures and faiths, this evening promises insight, ethics, and meaningful dialogue.

Spots are limited! Book your place today and join us for an enlightening journey!

An immersive, multi-faceted personal encounter with Jews and Muslims; learn their authentic beliefs and practices; counter rising antisemitism and Islamophobia.

06/08/2026

Today is Hiroshima Day. We pause to remember August 6 and August 9, 1945, the days atomic weapons were used on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The scale of destruction was catastrophic, taking more than 200,000 lives, shattering entire communities, and leaving lasting physical and emotional scars for generations.

Reflecting on this tragic history is a vital reminder of the real human cost of conflict and the overwhelming need for global peace, understanding, and nuclear disarmament.

May the lessons of the past guide us toward a world where such devastation is never repeated.

05/07/2026

As we celebrate NAIDOC Week 2026, we look back on 50 Years of Deadly, a half century of truth-telling, fighting for justice, and showcasing the incredible richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. It’s a reminder of the power held by Elders and community leaders who have paved the way for 50 years.

In our interfaith journeys, we know that peace and understanding are built on truth-telling and justice. NAIDOC themes over the past 50 years have consistently challenged us to listen, reckon, and act.

This week, we invite people of all faiths, traditions, and beliefs to:

- Listen to the spiritual and cultural stories of Indigenous Elders.

- Attend local community-led NAIDOC events.

- Engage in conversations that honor First Nations leadership.

May we continue to learn from 50 years of deadly resilience and work toward a future of genuine healing and shared respect.

01/06/2026

Bridges newsletter is now available - bit.ly/4vNvD2j

Dive into inspiring stories of interfaith dialogue, community updates, and resources designed to foster mutual understanding, lasting friendships, social cohesion and peace.

Perfect for schools, parishes, and anyone passionate about building a harmonious community.

27/05/2026

Wishing all our Muslim friends a blessed and joyful Eid al-Adha!

As our Muslim brothers and sisters gather to celebrate Eid al-Adha (the Festival of Sacrifice), the staff at the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations extends our warmest wishes for peace, joy, and deep spiritual blessings.

This sacred time commemorates the profound faith and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), a devotion that is honoured and shared within both traditions. It is a reminder of our common roots and the universal values of trust in God, selflessness, and care for those in need.

As families come together to pray, share meals, and extend charity to the wider community, we pray that this time strengthens the bonds of friendship, understanding, and harmony between us all.

Eid Mubarak!

27/05/2026

From 27 May to 3 June, National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements. This year’s theme, All In, reminds us that reconciliation invites us to take meaningful, everyday action to advance the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

True reconciliation won't happen by itself, and it can't just be the responsibility of First Nations people, who have carried the weight of championing change for far too long. It takes all of us.

How to be All In this week:
- Listen to and elevate First Nations voices.
- Learn about the traditional custodians of the land you live and work on.
- Support Indigenous-owned businesses, artists, and creators.
- Show up to local community events and yarning circles.

Let’s move forward together, creating a future strengthened by respectful relationships, deep listening, and real action. How are you choosing to be this week?

26/05/2026

Today is National Sorry Day, an important day for all Australians to pause, reflect, and listen to the truth of our history.

26 May marks the day the landmark Bringing Them Home report was tabled in 1997, exposing the devastating impacts of the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families. Generations later, the trauma remains an ongoing reality for many Stolen Generations survivors and their descendants.

Saying "sorry" was a vital milestone, but as this year’s theme reminds us, we must move From Sorry to Action. Healing cannot happen without truth-telling, accountability, and real change.

We're taking time today to listen to First Nations voices, educate ourselves further, and consider how we can further reconciliation. We encourage everyone to do the same.