Now more than ever
Justice & Advocacy
“We need to listen to and reflect upon the stories of the ancient ones that have been passed down over generations to those living in the present. Christ has called us to this. Now more than ever we need to listen to His call to be compassionate, just and loving, so we can walk authentic Christian journeys towards Reconciliation,” says The Rev’d Canon Bruce Boase as National Reconciliation Week commences on Monday
The theme for this year’s National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is “Now More Than Ever”. This theme reminds us that we must all continue working together to ensure equity and justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of our ongoing journey towards Reconciliation.
I know that I am not alone when I say that last year’s Referendum outcome was beyond disappointing — it was profoundly distressing. The Referendum was a chance to fix a glaring omission in our nation’s 122-year-old birth certificate — the Constitution — by recognising those who have been caring for the lands now known as Australia for tens of thousands of years. It was also an opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to have a pragmatic say in matters that impact their communities, such as in health, education and employment.
I would like to acknowledge all those who supported the “Yes” vote, including those who educated themselves by actively seeking out accurate sources of information, assisted with campaigning, shared positively on their social media channels, engaged in constructive conversations, attended events and volunteered on polling booths, among many other activities.
Your efforts mean a lot to me and other elders because we will not see Constitutional recognition of our people during our lifetimes. This is why we feel a sense of urgency and why this year’s NRW theme is so salient.
The timeline in this anglican focus reflection, which was written by The Ven. Geoff Hoyte, The Rev’d Rick Gummow and The Rev’d Michael Stalley, shows that our Diocese has been actively supporting Reconciliation at least since the 1960s.
Since that time, we have come a long way; however, much more needs to be done.
The stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples need to be listened to with open hearts. Now more than ever, the learning of our history, the genuine and truthful history, is essential.
The importance of gaining a greater appreciation of the cultures of First Nations peoples is also essential for our collective wellbeing.
We need to listen to and reflect upon the stories of the ancient ones that have been passed down over generations to those living in the present.
Christ has called us to this. Now more than ever we need to listen to His call to be compassionate, just and loving, so we can walk authentic Christian journeys towards Reconciliation.
As the Reconciliation Australia website explains, “We need connection. We need respect. We need action. And we need change.”
Whilst this is easy to write and say there are many who are yet to understand this. We, as the Anglican Church Southern Queensland, need to live this call — both for Reconciliation in our earthly lives and for the assurance of sharing Christ now and in eternity.
During my Reconciliation journey, I can proudly say that the Anglican Church Southern Queensland has been supportive. I especially see this in the development and implementation of our Diocese’s Reconciliation Action Plans.
I do pray for this support to continue. May we all grow together in Christ — in His unity and in His love.
Editor’s note: This year’s National Reconciliation Week (NRW) theme is “Now more than ever”. Visit the Reconciliation Australia website for posters and resources and to register your NRW events. Keep an eye on the anglican focus “Events” page for forthcoming Anglican Church Southern Queensland NRW events, including an event hosted by the Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group on Monday 27 May 2024 from 1pm in the Darnell Room.
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