International Council of Christians and Jews (ICCJ) |
Chanukka, the Festival of Joy and Lights, Overshadowed by an Antisemitic Atrocity in Australia
After yet another difficult, painful, and bloody day, we redouble our prayers and commitment to peace. May God send comfort to the mourners and healing to the wounded. May all efforts to end violence grow and illuminate the way to healing, reconciliation, and peace for everyone.
The ICCJ joins in the "Statement of Solidarity with the Jewish Community" issued by our member organization, the Australian Council of Christians and Jews [ACCJ]:
Last night, as members of the Jewish community gathered at Bondi Beach in Sydney to celebrate the first night of Chanukkah, two gunmen opened fire, killing and wounding innocent people.
We condemn this act of antisemitism and terrorism.
We are shocked and dismayed by this senseless act of violence at an event celebrating light and life.
We offer our prayers for those killed and injured, and we pray for all who have been traumatised by what has happened.
We know that these events will affect all members of the Jewish community in Australia and around the world.
We grieve with you as we try to make sense of these senseless events.
We offer our support to you during the festival of Chanukkah, mindful of the impact that these events have had at this normally peaceful and joyous time.
The Australian Council of Christians and Jews stands in solidarity with the Jewish community, the people of Bondi and all people affected by these senseless events.
We stand against dehumanisation, antisemitism and hate, and we commit ourselves to working for encounter, respect, dialogue and peace.
We pray together that light will overcome darkness.
Teaser Picture:
Photograph of the solar eclipse by Arthur Eddington and Edwin Cottingham, Principe, 29 May 1919,
credit: Royal Astronomical Society