The tragic and targeted attack on the Jewish community at Bondi Beach, as they gathered to begin their celebrations of the religious festival of Hanukkah, has shocked and saddened us all. Such hatred and violence have no place in our community.

We stand in solidarity and support for all in the Jewish community. I call for all to pray for our Jewish brothers and sisters, for those killed, those injured and all those impacted by these traumatic events.

I give deep thanks to the brave first responders and our emergency services.

While we as Christians were lighting candles on our Advent wreaths and celebrating Gaudete (Rejoice) Sunday, the Jewish community were lighting candles to begin their celebration of Hanukkah, an occasion that should have been a joyful gathering.

As we reflect at this time – a time when in the Christian community we are preparing to celebrate Jesus’ birth, a birth into a Jewish family – I am reminded this was God’s choice for his Son and God does not do things without good reason.

Together, we must live in mutual respect.

I know our leaders and governments will do all in their power at this difficult time to ensure that all Australians, and particularly Jewish Australians, can go about their daily lives without fear.

Let us pray together for peace: O God, creator of the world, who first revealed your love and salvation for humankind in and through the Jewish community, and who have revealed that peacemakers are to be called your children, grant we pray, that we may work without ceasing to establish that justice which alone ensures true and lasting peace. Amen.

With every blessing.

Bishop Michael Kennedy
Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle

This week our parishes will make their churches as available as possible for personal prayer and reflection. Our Cathedral is open every day and is a safe place to come and spend time. A mass this evening, 15 December 2025 at 7pm, begins Simbang Gabi and will be offered in support of all those affected by these distressing events, including those who lost their lives.