On the 27th November Caritas Australia held a virtual Service of Solidarity for the Holy Land, hosted by Mission Facilitator Michael McGirr. 

Michael began with an Acknowledgement of Country, and then shared of some thought provoking works from Palestinian artist Malak Mattar and Jewish artist Marc Chagall. 

The service acknowledged the difficult and complex events of the weeks since October 7th, reflecting with great sorrow on the loss of two Caritas employees and their families during that time. 

Michael paused on the words of the Talmud, allowing time for reflection.  

“Do not be daunted by the enormity of the world’s grief. Do justly, now. Love mercy, now. Walk humbly now. You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to abandon it.”  

The Service also included periodic readings from the Caritas Australia team, transcripts of the full readings included below. 

Sally Thomas Humanitarian Emergencies Lead gave an update on the situation on the ground, returning to the humanitarian principles of human dignity and talking to the hope afforded by the aid currently getting into Gaza. 

Archbishop Mark Coleridge reflected on God’s place in times of catastrophe, reminding attendees that he never forgets us and that he turns weakness to strength. Attendees were called upon by the Archbishop to put their faith and hope in God to do what we cannot and turn the wound of this conflict into a fountain of life. 

Michael McGirr led a final prayer for peace, closing out the service.