Online Liturgy 

All welcome!

A ‘blessing of the bowls’ liturgy will be offered online via Zoom this year, followed by an update from Act for Peace field staff about programs that receive funding through the Christmas Bowl. 

When: Wednesday 29 November 2023, 7:00 -8:00 pm AEDT (Can, Syd, Melb, Hob.)

Gifts for Peace

Give a meaningful gift this Christmas. 

Struggling to know what to give this Christmas? Why not consider a Gift for Peace. As we reflect on the extraordinary gift of love and compassion that Christ has given us this Christmas season, Gifts for Peace offers a practical way to share His example with those around us.

Raising Voices 

• Indigenous Theology Conference: Raising Our Tribal Voice for Justice: An Indigenous Theological Revolution 5-8 February 2024, Melbourne VIC
  
  
• Watch: Dr Stan Grant Wiradjuri man and journalist speaking at the Queensland UCA Synod in October.

News

• 16Days of Activism: against gender based violence from 25 November to 10 December. 
• Child Rights Impact Assessment (CRIA) tool: developed by the Australian Human Rights Commission with support from UNICEF
• International Day of People with Disability: respecting diversity and promoting equity in your church

At the NCCA Annual General Meeting on 1 November 2023, His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Charioupolis of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese was elected as a new Director of the company.

 Break the Silence Sunday – Liturgy 

The Pacific Conference of Churches (PCC) offers the global community a liturgy for ‘Break the Silence Sunday’, observed the Sunday prior to November 25.

The pdf packet includes background to the commemoration, liturgical and other resources for use prior to, or during the 16Days of Activism (Nov 25 – Dec 10).

“Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."

(Matthew 11:28)

It is impossible to not be impacted by the news images and reports from the Middle East at the moment. 

News and updates 

• Refugee Council of Australia: Operation Not Forgotten online briefing - Wednesday 8 November11am AEST
  
  
• Current Advocacy Actions: Petition & Letter of Support

Safeguarding news

• Department of Justice Tasmania: New interim compliance guidance resource available
  
  
• My Pictures Matter: Could your childhood photos help save a child from harm?

Gaza Update

After more than three weeks of bombing, basic water, sanitation, healthcare, and services have all been decimated. Food, water, fuel and electricity have all been cut off, jeopardising the survival of more than 2 million people in the Gaza strip.

Here’s how you can help.