Australia’s Catholic bishops say peace is possible if people commit to speaking the truth and redouble efforts to end war.
The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference released the Social Justice Statement for 2024-25, entitled Truth and Peace: A Gospel Word in a Violent World this week Tuesday 20 August.
Every year, the bishops seek to make a substantive comment on a key social issue and this year the focus is on the promotion of peace and the need for truth in public life.
“Words are never enough to make peace – action is required,” said Australian Catholic Bishops Conference President and Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB.
“Words such as those found in this statement can help us understand the current situation and how we might work together to create a world which better matches both human desire and the divine plan.”
The statement examines rising tensions around the world, the nature of truth, the spread of misinformation and disinformation, the arms race, domestic cohesion, the need for dialogue and education for peace.
It also lists practical action which can be taken to make a real difference.
Bishop Vincent Long, Chair of the Bishops Commission for Social Justice, Mission and Service, said: “The violence in Australia and other parts of the world make it all the more urgent that all who believe in Jesus Christ work together with everyone of good will, all who love truth, to show the world that there is a realistic way to peace, a genuine peace built upon speaking truth and building trust”.
A copy of the statement and other resources can be found here.
Social Justice Sunday will be marked on August 25, 2024.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
• Foster dialogue and understanding: Talk with people from different backgrounds and perspectives, seeking to understand their experiences and viewpoints. This can help break down barriers, build empathy, and promote mutual respect, which are essential for peace-building.
• Promote education for peace: Support educational initiatives that teach the values of peace, conflict resolution, and empathy. Encourage schools and educational institutions to incorporate peace education into their curriculum, teaching students about the importance of dialogue, non-violence, and cooperation.
• Advocate for disarmament: Take action to promote disarmament and the reduction of military spending. Support organisations and campaigns that work towards the elimination of nuclear weapons and the regulation of the arms trade. Encourage governments to redirect resources from military spending to social welfare, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development.
• Engage in community service and reconciliation efforts: Volunteer and participate in community service projects that promote social cohesion, inclusivity, and reconciliation. This can involve working with marginalised groups, supporting refugees and migrants, or participating in initiatives that address historical injustices and promote healing.
• Practice non-violence and conflict resolution: Embrace non-violent approaches to conflict resolution in personal relationships, communities, and broader society. Seek peaceful resolutions to conflicts, promote dialogue, and encourage mediation and negotiation rather than resorting to violence. Support organisations and initiatives that promote non-violence and conflict resolution skills training.