Pope Benedict XVI has today called for a renewed purpose in meeting the challenges facing Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders, in a personal message delivered to an indigenous gathering in Alice Springs.
The Gathering
The Pope’s message was delivered to more than 600 people from Australia and New Zealand, who are gathered in Alice Springs for The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council’s ‘Dreaming from the Heart’ Assembly.
The Event
The Assembly commemorated the 20th anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s landmark speech to indigenous Australians at Alice Springs in 1986.
Commentary
“Much rests therefore upon the example of the Elders of communities. I encourage them to exercise authority wisely through faithfulness to their traditions – songs, stories, paintings, dances – and most especially through a renewed expression of their deep awareness of God, made possible through the Good News of Jesus Christ,” he said
Solidarity
“Don’t allow your ‘dreaming’ to be undermined by the shallow call of those who might lure you into the misuse of alcohol and drugs, as promises of happiness. Such promises are false, and lead only to a circle of misery and entrapment. Instead, I exhort you to foster the encounter with the mystery of God’s spirit active in you and in creation, beckoning you to a life of purpose, service satisfaction and joy.”
