Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Sidney (Agenzia Fides) - Among the various initiatives of the Australian Church, this year Catholic Mission Australia focuses its attention on Jamaica, which has the second highest rate in the world regarding deaths due to firearms.
Often hidden behind the facade of its tropical beaches or opulent resorts and crystal clear water, Jamaica is indeed a Country deeply troubled by violence and crime. Families live in a climate of constant fear, desperate for peace and security. In a statement sent to Fides Agency, the Deputy Director of Catholic Mission Australia, Peter Gates, said: "We Australians are blessed because we live in a relatively safe Country, but we must remember that others are not so lucky. Mission Month is an important moment where one can share, serve and help, according to the inspiration and the teachings of the Gospel, so that everyone, both here and elsewhere, can live a full life". On Sunday, October 19 World Mission Sunday is celebrated-, and this period also coincides with the Week against Poverty in Australia. On October 22, Mission Day of Children, invites children to be missionaries in the most diverse interactive forms.
Another priority for this Day, said Gates, is the release of children who are detained because immigrants: "While we talk about these issues hundreds of young children suffer atrocious treatment. My desire is that during this month of October all Australian Catholics become missionary disciples, by offering a better life to those who need it most". "At a local and global level, we can all make a difference, and Mission Month is a unique opportunity", concludes Gates. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 02/10/2014)
