Caritas Australia will host a Virtual Service of Remembrance on Tuesday, October 7th, marking two years since the escalation of conflict in the Holy Land, honouring all lives lost and praying for those still suffering.
1,200 Israeli lives were lost on October 7th, 2023, with over 65,000 Palestinian lives lost since. Over the past two years conflict has also spread across the Middle East, with deaths in Lebanon, Iran, Syria, and Yemen.
In Gaza two million people continue to suffer as they face a famine, depleted medical services, a lack of shelter, and little access to clean water.
The 20-minute online service, held via Zoom at 12:00 PM AEDT, will be led by Michael McGirr, Caritas Australia’s Mission Facilitator, and will feature a message from Bishop Tim Harris, Chair of the Bishops Commission for Social Justice, Mission, and Service.
“This service is a moment to honour lives lost and renew our shared commitment to peace,” said Kirsten Sayers, CEO of Caritas Australia. “Being an agent of peace means making a courageous, active choice to uphold human dignity, even in the face of violence and despair. At Caritas, we walk alongside communities in crisis, amplifying their voices and calling the world to compassion. We ask those of faith to join us in doing so as we mark this sombre anniversary.”
The service will include prayers for peace and solidarity with those affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Attendees are encouraged to share a simple meal -such as rice, bread, and tea - after the service, in solidarity with those experiencing food insecurity.
Three Ways to Act:
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Pray, during the service or in your own time
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Write to your MP, urging action for peace and humanitarian support
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Give to our Gaza Appeal, to support urgent relief efforts
Register to attend: https://caritas.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_z3cMShKiTNeIX2MdGf14LQ
Since October 2023 Caritas Australia’s partners in Gaza have been providing widespread medical services, food programs, water trucking, mental health care, and prosthetic support, as well as supporting hundreds of people sheltering in several churches.
Caritas Australia is also a long-term partner of Caritas Lebanon and has supported programs before, during and after the conflict in 2024.
To support Caritas Australia’s Gaza Crisis Appeal, click the button below or call 1800 024 413 toll free.
Media contact: Tara Harvey 0484 002 021 tara.harvey@caritas.org.au or caritasmedia@caritas.org.au
