Dear Brothers and Sisters,
The tragedy at Bondi Beach yesterday has shocked and deeply saddened our entire community, with many carrying fear, grief and unanswered questions.
Such violence is a grave assault on human dignity and can never be justified. We condemn this act unequivocally and reject all hatred that seeks to harm innocent people. There is no place for antisemitism, especially in Australia.
Together with all people, and with the wisdom of the Holy Spirit, we stand in solidarity with the Jewish community and pray for all those affected – those who have lost their lives or been injured, and the many individuals, families and communities whose lives have been changed in an instant.
We also pray for the first responders, healthcare workers, and members of the public who acted with courage and compassion in the face of danger – protecting others, offering help and bringing calm and support amid uncertainty. These acts of self-giving love and care reflect the very best of our humanity, our shared values, and our hope for each other.
Let us continue to offer our care, compassion and prayers, calling on Mary, our Mother and Queen of Peace, to intercede for us.
At times like this, it is vital that we do not allow fear or anger to divide us. Violence, retaliation and discrimination are never the answer, even in the face of terrorism and antisemitism.
As Pope Leo XIV reminds us, peace is “an unarmed peace and a disarming peace, humble and persevering. It comes from God, God who loves us all unconditionally.” This is the peace to which we are called, even when the path is difficult.
I invite our Diocesan community to pray for healing, for comfort for all who mourn, and for a renewed commitment to unity, mutual respect and peace across our diverse faiths and cultures. May we continue to stand together against violence in all its forms. May God be close to all who are suffering, and may His peace rest upon our community.
In Christ,
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv
Bishop of Parramatta
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Many organisations have also shared their response to the terrorist attack in Bondi.
The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference has shared a statement, where President, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, said:
“The violence and horror which descended upon Bondi on Sunday evening have shaken Australians to the core… The twisted motives behind those who perpetrated these terrible acts are now clearly linked with the scourge of antisemitism. This is a shocking and deeply distressing reality which calls into question our own understanding of ourselves as Australians.”
“In a country which prides itself on its tolerance and open-hearted hospitality this blind prejudice and hatred points to a dark and destructive stain in our society which threatens not just our Jewish brothers and sisters but, in fact, all of us. We must rediscover our conviction that nothing can ever justify this destructive violence.”
Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP of the Archdiocese of Sydney said:
“We love our Jewish neighbours and friends, and we must do all we can to keep them safe. The Catholic community will redouble its efforts to combat antisemitism through education and preaching… We will have many services of prayer for the dead, injured and traumatised.
“Hanukkah and Christmas occur around the same time as festivals of faith and family, of gifts and especially of light. We pray that the God of light will grant wisdom to our leaders and pour healing and hope upon our community at this time.”
St Vincent de Paul Society also shared a statement, attributed to Mark Gaetani, National President, St Vincent de Paul Society National Council of Australia:
“I want to stand in solidarity alongside all people of good will to send a very strong, clear and loud message to our Jewish friends and fellow citizens that you are part of us. You have always been and will continue to be welcome across all our local communities. Like every Australian, every Jewish person is a valuable member of our Australian community… May God’s healing presence bring comfort to all who are grieving and peace to our communities.”
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord and may perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.
