Bishop Archbishop Mark and Bishop Tim discuss the importance of the referendum on 'The Voice' and the broader issue of reconciliation in Australia.
Bishop Archbishop Mark emphasizes that the referendum is not just about the indigenous population but concerns all Australians. He believes that reconciliation is a critical issue that has been a longstanding problem since the beginning of European settlement in Australia. He sees the referendum as an opportunity to unlock the potential of both indigenous people and the nation as a whole through fundamental healing and reconciliation.
Bishop Tim shares his personal experience of a walk to Cherbourg, a disadvantaged community in the Archdiocese, and highlights the alarming rate of youth suicides in the region. He acknowledges that previous approaches to indigenous issues have not been effective in addressing the root causes. He suggests that the indigenous voice is crucial in finding solutions to these problems and emphasizes the need for a new approach to improve the situation.
Bishop Mark mentions the global context of truth and reconciliation commissions and the opportunity for Christians to pursue reconciliation in Australia. He believes that Christians have a unique role to play in speaking with a gospel voice and following the ministry of reconciliation outlined in 2 Corinthians 5.
Both bishops agree that this is a historic moment and an opportunity for Christian people to empower indigenous communities to shape their own history. They stress the importance of respectful dialogue and collaboration, even if there is disagreement, to address the underlying issues and bring the nation together.
In conclusion, both bishops see the stakes as high, and even if the referendum were to fail, they are committed to continuing the journey toward reconciliation in a way that aligns with the principles of the gospel and the teachings of Jesus Christ.
