Bondi Beach Shooting: shock and Calls for Unity Following Attack on Jewish Community
Following the tragedy of the attack on the Jewish community at Bondi Beach in Australia,Vatican News speaks to the parish priest of the local community. The Archbishop of Sydney also issues a statement urging the Catholic community to end antisemitism through education and preaching.
By Kielce Gussie and Christopher Wells
What was supposed to be a community festivity for the Jewish feast of Hanukkah turned into a tragic scene as at least 16 people were killed, including a young child, and many others injured at Australia’s Bondi Beach on the evening of December 14th.
speaking with Vatican News’ Christopher Wells, the parish priest of st. Ann’s and St. Patrick’s Churches at Bondi Beach, fr. Anthony Robbie, shared his initial reaction to the shooting was one of shock and distress.
Moreover, Fr.Robbie expressed fear for the young people in the community as sydney has “a predominantly young adult population” and “many of them were on the beach at the time.” One of whom he spoke with as the parishioner was escaping from the gunmen.
Mourners gather at a tribute at the Bondi pavillion in memory of the victims of the shooting, which killed 16 people.(Credit: AFP)
## Archbishop Fisher condemns Sydney stabbing attack, calls for end to antisemitism
Archbishop Anthony Fisher has strongly condemned the stabbing attack at a Sydney shopping center, describing it as “an affront to our way of life as Australians” and demanding swift justice for the victims.
The archbishop highlighted a concerning rise in public antisemitism over the past two years,citing intimidation,division,demonstrations,and “the normalisation of incendiary language.” He warned that these actions have “turned up the temperature and perhaps contributed to radicalisation,” urging for an immediate cessation.
The attack resonated personally with Archbishop Fisher,whose great grandmother was Jewish. However,he emphasized that it is a matter of concern for all Christians,stating,”we are children of the Jews. And so, an attack on the Jews is an attack on all of us.”
A challenge to Catholics
Amidst the tragedy, Archbishop Fisher acknowledged “traces of goodness” in the “remarkable bravery from police, ambulance officers and lifesavers, and also from bystanders; and in the generosity of spirit of those offering help to those affected.”
He conveyed his deepest condolences to the Jewish community and pledged his prayers, affirming, “We love our Jewish neighbours and friends, and we must do all we can to keep them safe.”
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