Geelong Interfaith Network
Geelong Interfaith Network joined in political and community leaders in the launch of the Multicultural Action Plan at the City of Greater Geelong council offices on 11th August 2011. It was great to see so many from our network there. Some from the Network who were very visable were Vemma (French translation), Jenny (signing the circular mandala) and Dzejlav (Artist of the painting behind the Speakers).
Randall caught up with a few youth present to invite them personally to the Service Project to be held on 3rd Sept, 2011. The Geelong Interfaith Network with UPF will greet the first Saturday in spring at the gardens of the Drol Kar Buddhist Center. We seek volunteers to help gardening while getting to know youth from other faith groups.
Prayers for Japan
The Geelong Interfaith Network is supporting the prayer requests for Japan in their time of need.
7 Minutes a day for 7 Days is one request. The on-going problems will last longer than 7 days ...
Mons James Murray wing being named at Merrivale Nursing Home in West Geelong in the near future. An honour well desrved by the Geelong Interfaith Network's chairman for his service in Geelong over the many years.
Vision
Recognising the ancient spirituality of the First People of this land, the Wathaurong, we commit ourselves to develop a spirit of mutual respect, trust and understanding between the diverse faith communities and traditions in Geelong.
We recognise and acknowledge the common human dignity and equality of all in our community, always repecting the diversity of beliefs, background, and particular national customs and values.
We seek to encourage full participation in the whole life of the community of the City of Greater Geelong, and to celebrate the rich traditions and cultural heritage, of each faith group.
Together we offer to the City of Greater Geelong our common and united commitment to live and work together in peaceful co-operation for the well being of the whole community.
Aims
To create mutual understanding between member groups, and within the wider community to which our groups belong. To encourage acceptance of all faith traditions as members of the Geelong Community through understanding and educating the wider Community about their traditions, beliefs and values.
In a spirit of justice, love and peace sharing our common humanity, expressing our diverse spirituality in our community.
We proudly support and are actively involved in celebrating our rich cultural and religious diversity through:
- Pako Festa
- International Harmony Day
- Our proud association with Diversitat.
We support aboriginal reconciliation through links to One Fire Reconciliation.
History
Ever since 9/11, Muslims felt isolation and persicution in communities around Australia.
So on the eve of war in 2003, the Monsignor James Murray had invited several representatives to pray for peace and understanding. Mayor Barbara Abley supported the initiative by allowing it to take place in the Geelong City Council offices.
After such a moving experience, a monthly meeting was organised and continues to today.
We continued there for about a year before moving to our present location at the Virginia Todd Centre in Geelong west.
Activities since then include:
- Pako Festa
- Visits to each others' faith venues
- A Women's Friendship Group started
- An annual stall at the Pako Festival
- Voice of Interfaith on 94.7FM (last Thurs of the month at 3:30pm)
Click on "Faith Information" to see a list of groups actively participating in the Geelong Interfaith Network.
