Bishop Anthony Randazzo has requested a Vigil of Prayer for Peace on Monday, 7 October at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral, Waitara, as he attends the Synod on Synodality at the Vatican.
Speaking from Rome, Bishop Anthony said: “As we witness the escalating tension and violence in the Middle East, it is imperative that we, as a global community, reflect on the profound implications of war and conflict.”
As President of the Federation of Catholic Bishops Conferences of Oceania (FCBCO), Bishop Anthony is leading the Oceania delegation at the Synod. He sent this message to his brothers and sisters in the Diocese of Broken Bay, and all members of the delegation and those they represent in the countries that are spread throughout the vast Oceania region.
“The Middle East, the cradle of faith for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, holds a unique place in the hearts of billions around the world. It is a region steeped in rich history, culture, and spiritual heritage. Yet, it is also a region where the dignity and sanctity of human life are too often overshadowed by the spectre of violence,” he said.
“The value of human life is immeasurable. Every individual, created in the image of God, possesses an inherent dignity that commands respect and protection. War and violence, however, only serve to destroy this sacred gift. They dismantle communities, fracture relationships, and obliterate the cultural and historical fabric that binds us together. The grief and suffering caused by violence are borne disproportionately by the innocent, leaving deep scars that take generations to heal.
“It is crucial to remember that the bonds of our shared humanity and faith far outweigh the differences that divide us. Jews, Christians, and Muslims are united in their reverence for the divine, their commitment to justice, and their desire for peace. Our common heritage calls us to foster understanding, compassion, and dialogue. We must work tirelessly to build bridges of peace and reconciliation, rather than walls of hostility and division.
“As we confront to the current crisis, let us reaffirm our commitment to peace. Let us raise our voices in unison—Shalom, Peace, Salam—echoing the divine call to embrace a civilization of love. The path to peace is neither easy nor straightforward, but it is the only path that honours the dignity of every human being and preserves the legacy of our shared spiritual home.
“May our collective prayers and actions pave the way for a future where the Middle East, and indeed the world, can flourish in peace, respect, and mutual understanding.”
The Vigil of Prayer for Peace in our World will begin at 8.00pm at the Cathedral on Monday, 7 October which is the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary.