Australia’s response to asylum seekers and refugees is one of the most significant issues of our age. It is a vexed and very complex issue, muddled by incorrect information and political manoeuvring. As a Christian people, we are called to provide care and comfort to people who come to this country seeking refuge.
The Uniting Church in Australia advocates very strongly for a just approach to asylum seekers and refugees, upholding their human rights and treating them with compassion and dignity.
The Uniting Church approaches the issue of asylum seekers and refugees in the context of the words of Jesus. He spoke of a new community established on righteousness and love, and based on a fellowship of reconciliation — a community in which all members work together for the good of the whole. In essence, working for this kind of society is our contribution to civil society. When we work for freedom, human rights and the common good of the community we are expressing our faith. It is an outworking of the community of God.
Crowd cheers Uniting Church
UnitingJustice director Rev Elenie Poulos addressed a recent Let Them Stay rally, speaking to church and non-church people. The words and actions of the Uniting Church received a very warm reception.
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