A Call for Prayer Reconciliation, and Recognition

Friday, 25 May 2012 11:50

From The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ecumenical Commission (NATSIEC) of the National Council of Churches in Australia

“The theme for National Reconciliation Week “Let’s talk recognition” is also relevant to Christians as we start the Week of Prayer for Reconciliation,” said Bishop Saibo Mabo Chairperson of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ecumenical Commission (NATSIEC) the peak Indigenous ecumenical body and commission of the National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA).

“We as Australians need to be united in one mind, one heart, and in one action as we continue on the journey of Reconciliation. Reconciliation is all about positive and respectful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and all other Australians.

Reconciliation needs to be fair and include justice and proper recognition. True reconciliation is not to just talk about recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and culture but it is to act. We need to start at the policy level and start at the top with the Australian Constitution.”

During National Reconciliation Week 27 May to 3 June the churches are celebrating the Week of Prayer for Reconciliation. Bishop Mabo said “I call for all people to pray for Reconciliation and Recognition. It is important for us all to pray and understand people. We need to be of one accord, there’s no good fighting we must understand each other. We must see the land where we are as belonging to Creator God We need to work together in love, peace and joy.

I strongly encourage everyone to attend one of the many services for reconciliation that are happening in every part of this land and unite all our prayers together for a better future. Reconciliation needs to be lived and real in every level of the Australian community.”
_______________________________________
For further comment Bishop Mabo is available (07) 4069-1960
Prayer Resources are available http://www.ncca.org.au/departments/natsiec/resources/prayer
The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ecumenical Commission (NATSIEC) of the National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA) is the peak ecumenical Indigenous body in Australia. With NATSIEC’s guidance, the churches are working together for a fair deal for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, and for the healing of our nation.