The ongoing situation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in our country is a major concern to Australia as a healthy nation,’ said Rev John Henderson, speaking on behalf of the National Council of Churches in Australia. ‘In the face of this crisis each Australian needs to be willing to share in the miracle of healing. Eyes need to be opened, ears unstopped, and hands and bodies set free to hear and act on the plight of so many in our community’, he said.

‘The NCCA welcomes the National Sorry Day Committee’s change in emphasis to focus more on models of healing, especially through the National Day of Healing,’ said Mr Henderson.

‘Sorry Day drew attention to the pain and suffering caused by the damaging policies and attitudes inflicted on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples since colonisation.

‘Now that we know what is going on, we must respond as a nation through a culture of healing. The pain and suffering experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will not diminish until all people of good will acknowledge our shared histories and actively embrace reconciliation.

‘Until reconciliation is entwined within the fabric of our Australian identity, we will remain fractured in this land of promise and plenty.

‘Every day God calls us to be healers in the way we live our lives. Through the National Day of Healing we are especially asked to focus on issues of reconciliation in our country, examine our consciences, and ask what more can I do.’

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Further Information:

Mr Graeme Mundine, Executive Secretary
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ecumenical Commission
0419-238-788

Rev John Henderson, General Secretary
National Council of Churches in Australia
0419-224-935

Rev Prof James Haire, President
National Council of Churches in Australia
0408-632-092