Reflections of the last six weeks at Queensland Faith Communities Council (QFCC)
February
Two Executive members celebrate significant leadership events- congratulations
Since our last QFCC Executive meeting on the 4th February, two of our executive members have celebrated significant leadership events.
On 6th February a new President was elected of the Islamic Council of Queensland.
On 16th February I was privileged to witness the commissioning of the new General Secretary of Queensland Churches Together at the Uniting church in Toowong.
We congratulate these members and wish them much success in their roles.
Preparations for Multi Faith Service at Parliament House
On 9th February – plans are underway for this year’s multi faith service at Parliament House. We have the run sheet from last year’s event which was cancelled due to Covid-19. The most challenging aspect is finalising a date for 2021.
Valuable time spent with Founder of BWCP
On February 23, The Secretary and I spent some time at Justice Place with the founder of Believing Women for a Culture of Peace (BWCP) to learn about its history. It was a valuable experience to hear her speak and we hope to be able to carry on some of the initiatives of this group.
BWCP has been a highly active group for the past 17 years and the founder is to be congratulated for her endless energy and vision in promoting peace and harmony in our society. BWCP has now closed, but it can be immensely proud of its history and legacy.
Bahá’í community celebrate 100 years in Australia
On February 25 we were invited by the Bahá’í community to attend a reception at Parliament House celebrating the centenary of the arrival of the Bahá’í Faith in Australia. The founders in Australia, Clara and Hyde Dunn were honoured, and a publication ‘Creating an Inclusive Narrative’ was launched.
Faith Celebrations held during March
There have been no meetings to attend so far in March, but it is a busy month for many of our member groups.
- 20 March – Bahá’í celebration of New Year (Naw-Rúz)
- 20-23 March – Pagan Mabon (Autumn equinox) is celebrated
- 27 March~5 April – Jewish freedom festival of Pesach (Passover) is celebrated
- 28 March – Islamic community celebrate Lailat al Bara’a
- 29 March – Hindu community celebrate Holi (New Year)
- 29 March – Sikh community celebrate the festival of Holla Mahalla
- In early April, the Christian celebration of Easter takes place
Reflection
Presently, in many countries around the world people are not as fortunate as we are. Here in Australia we are not only free to celebrate our diversity, but supported and encouraged by those in power to do so.
We remember and pray for those who are imprisoned and persecuted for their faiths.
Chairperson
Queensland Faith Communities Council