The Chevalier Family Australia supports NAIDOC week
– we have a history with the people of the Northern Territory and the Torres Strait Islands for over a hundred years, MSC Brothers and Priests, OLSH Sisters, Lay Missionaries.
Our main current connection is Wadeye.
Memory of Deacon Boniface. Leo Wearden, current PP.
Held across the country from 7-14 July 2024, NAIDOC Week will celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This year’s theme chosen by the National NAIDOC Committee, is Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud.
The theme honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Within the Church, we also observe Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday (July 7).
This day provides an opportunity for Catholic communities to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It encourages congregations to reflect on the contributions and resilience of Indigenous communities and to pray for their well-being and advancement. This observance underscores the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives and voices within the fabric of the Church’s life and mission.
Port Keats early days of the mission
The importance of reconciliation in Australia is profound, aiming to repair and strengthen the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. Reconciliation involves acknowledging past injustices, addressing current inequalities, and fostering mutual respect and understanding. It is essential for creating a cohesive society where the rights, cultures, and histories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are recognized and valued. Efforts toward reconciliation are not only about addressing historical wrongs but also about ensuring equitable opportunities and outcomes for Indigenous Australians in all aspects of life.
OLSH Thamarrurr Colege, Wadeye
For the Catholic Church in Australia, reconciliation is deeply tied to its mission of social justice and inclusivity. The 2023-2024 Social Justice Statement “Listen, Learn, Love: A New Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples” outlined the significant part the Church has to play in the reconciliation process through advocating for the rights and dignity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This includes supporting initiatives that promote healing, cultural preservation, and empowerment. By embracing reconciliation, the Church can contribute to a more just and compassionate society, aligning its actions with the principles of love, respect, and solidarity that are central to its teachings.
