6 December 2024 

The National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA) strongly condemns the arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne earlier today. 

“There is no place for attacks on places of religious worship. We pray with and for our Jewish brothers and sisters in their distress and fear as they prepare for Shabat worship that they will feel safe and supported to attend their synagogues” said Rev John Gilmore, NCCA President. 

“These weeks preparing for the celebration of the Festival of Light (Hanakkah) is a special time for the Jewish community and we pray that this year they can look forward to this festival with family and friends.” 

As the NCCA has commented in the past when churches, synagogues, mosques and temples have been vandalised and worshippers injured: 

“Let us respond to each other with respect and compassion.

In our prayers, we lift up our communities that are seeking comfort and strength at this time. 

It is for all of us to step up as peacemakers and commit to upholding the safety and harmony of our multi-cultural and multi-faith society in Australia. 

We ask everyone to contribute to the ongoing national endeavour of nurturing peace and understanding.” 

Rev John Gilmore, NCCA President, 6 December 2024