Adobe Stock1797763250 by Shibu

The Interfaith Peace Project lovingly stands in solidarity with the Jewish Community throughout the world as we mourn the tragic loss of life in Australia at the Bondi Beach Hanukkah celebration. We hope the injured will heal quickly. The survivors of this horrendous event will be wounded for life. The violence of this antisemitic act reverberates throughout the world, reminding us that the violence against Jewish people still persists in our world. We are more than aware that this latest attack against the Jewish community rips open the wounds of all past antisemitic attacks. There is no room in this world for “religiously” motivated violence of any kind. There is no circumstance or situation that would ever permit such inhumane behavior.

While we condemn such violence, we understand that condemnation is not enough. Once again, we call upon the Faith Traditions of the world to examine their own Sacred Texts, commentaries, customs, rituals, and traditions for any hint of teachings that might enable or foster religious intolerance or hatred of others in the name of God.  

The rise of Interfaith sensitivities in our time urges us to see one another as companions on the journey of life. We are created to help and encourage one another. We cannot endure religious prejudice, bias, or hatred as we seek the well-being of all people everywhere. How we believe and act as people of faith determines whether or not we will live in peace, justice, and harmony. As Hans Kung so wisely taught, “No peace among the nations without peace among the religions. No peace among the religions without dialogue between the religions.” We need to study, learn, and teach across the religious divides. We need to work together to repair and transform the world. We must pursue the well-being of every person if peace is to prevail. Compassion and understanding must be the order of the day. We must teach our children well if we truly desire to be children of God.

The lights of Hanukkah will continue to burn brightly in our quest for the justice that gives birth to peace. Let us light the candles of hope, courage, resistance, reconciliation, understanding, justice, love, and peace. We are motivated by the desire never to forget those who were lost to antisemitic and “religiously” motivated violence, hatred, and terrorism. Indeed, may their memory be for a blessing.

Peacefully,

Thomas P. Bonacci, C.P.
With the Board of Directors
The Interfaith Peace Project