Dear Circle of Hope,

Where do we turn when our peace is in pieces? The tragedy that occurred on Sunday evening in Bondi has stunned us all and resulted in a collective trauma, grief and lament. Many of us were journeying peacefully, albeit amidst the hustle and bustle of this season, towards Christmas and the end of the year. But through the horrific acts of two people our peace was not only rocked but shattered. A level of violence that we have rarely witnessed on our shores unfolded and innocent lives were lost and many others forever changed.

Yes, in the midst of the aftermath we encounter brave and heroic stories along with the harrowing, graphic and unfathomable stories, but even though these arise many of us are left wondering how to process such a significant and impactful tragedy. In the news and social media we hear politicians, leaders and outspoken people present their reflections, reasons and solutions, many of which continue to disturb us in their attempts to vilify, label and ostracise sections of our own communities.

For me as the leader of a faith community, I continue to find hope in love. This may sound trite and like it doesn’t speak to the heart of this current situation, but I would suggest that it is and does. The way I can respond and find a way ahead is to walk the way of love. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words still speak down through the years to us as he reminds us that: "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Luther King Jr. first spoke these words on Christmas Day almost 70 years ago in a talk called “Loving Your Enemies.” In a world where an ‘us and them' mentality continues to divide our society and communities, this type of love is one of our biggest challenges. How do we treat those who are different to us? How do we treat those who grieve us? Well I believe the answer is to continue to love. To love and keep loving, even when it hurts. And if loving people like this is difficult for us, then let us begin by loving those who are close to us with greater depth and vibrancy and out of this will flow a beautiful love that can extend to others.

So in these days following such a major tragedy in our country, one that has rippled throughout every community, let us remember to love. For in this we can and will make a difference in this world. When our peace is in pieces let us turn to love.

Thank you for being part of our Circle of Hope.

Grace and peace,

Phil