Australian Catholic bishops urge peace in Holy Land
Australian Catholic bishops have expressed grave concern over the violence in the Holy Land and calling for immediate peace in a written statement.
In solidarity with all affected, regardless of faith, the bishops emphasised the region’s significance to Christianity. They echoed Pope Francis’ plea for an end to hostilities and urged global prayers for peace.
Denouncing antisemitism and acknowledging Palestinian suffering, the bishops called for a just ceasefire, release of hostages, and unhindered aid access. They affirmed support for international peace efforts.
‘Palestinians and Israelis have suffered greatly, and on both sides there are those committed to violence, believing that Israel and Palestine can never be at peace, that it must be one or the other.
‘But there are others who believe that peace is possible, and we join them in this belief, conscious that there have been times when Jews, Christians and Muslims have lived in peace together’.
Bishops approve Mass of the Land of the Holy Spirit
Australia’s Catholic bishops have approved a liturgy which incorporates elements of Aboriginal language and culture.
A motion was passed at the plenary meeting of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference in Sydney on Tuesday approving the Mass of the Land of the Holy Spirit (Missa Terra Spiritus Sancti) for use in the Diocese of Broome in WA.
The Mass will now be submitted to the Dicastery for Divine Worship for what is known as ‘recognitio’, or official recognition by the Vatican.
‘We have to walk with Aboriginal people. I am so pleased that after such a long period of use the Missa Terra Spiritus Sancti has been given official recognition by the bishops of Australia,’ bishop administrator of Broome Michael Morrissey said.
‘We recognise there are many Aboriginal cultures in Australia and we pray that they all be guided by the Holy Spirit to develop the best way of celebrating the Eucharist in the most appropriate ways with their people, within the life of the Church.’
Blocking online alcohol content good for children
La Trobe University researchers unveiled findings today supporting a browser plug-in to combat online alcohol exposure among young people.
Lead researcher Maree Patsouras highlighted the link between online alcohol imagery and increased alcohol consumption.
‘A large portion of the people we interviewed in this study believed that viewing online alcohol imagery could cause temptation and cravings to drink alcohol,’ Ms Patsouras said.
The study advocates for both plug-in development and stricter governmental regulations on alcohol marketing.
Combatting sextortion threat
Sextortion is a concerning online blackmail tactic which poses a significant risk to young people.
The e-Commissioner defines it as manipulation through fake profiles on dating apps or social media, coercing victims into sharing intimate content under threat of exposure.
Parents are urged to engage actively in their child’s online life and initiate conversations on sensitive topics like sexting.
Should an incident occur, the e-commissioner encourages immediate action, advising victims to cease communication, seek support from organisations like kids helpline, and report to relevant authorities or platforms.
For support and resources, visit the e-Commissioner’s website.
What’s On
The Jesuit Communications Young Voices Awards (YVAs) close soon: The theme is ‘Do Good, be good, spread the good news’. The competition is open to secondary school and senior primary school students – Junior (Years 5 and 6); Intermediate (Years 7 to 9); or Senior (Years 10 to 12). Each section has three entry categories: articles, photographs and digital (video or podcast). Entries close 5pm, Friday, 24 May 2024. Find out more.
Professional Learning: Effective reading practices in the Religious Education classroom
In this session, AC+ subscribers can find out more about how to use structural approaches to teaching reading, such as subject-specific vocabulary and knowledge development in the Religious Education classroom and delve into ways to approach reading the Bible effectively
Guests: Australian Centre for the Advancement of Literacy director Professor Rauno Parrila and National School of Theology researcher Dr Janine Luttick.
Teaching idea: Using ChatGpT effectively to generate subject or article-specific knowledge and vocabulary activities for the religious education classroom using Australian Catholics articles.
Date: 21 May
Time: 4.30-5.30pm AEST
Book your spot here