December 2009 at PWR
In December 2009, several thousand religious people from around the world gathered in Melbourne for the PARLIAMENT OF WORLD RELIGIONS.
The Geelong Interfaith Network participated in a panel during a session.
(Click here for more info about the PWR)
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.
