Saint Pope John Paul II’s speech resonates 40 years on

Catholic communities across Australia are encouraged to observe the 40th anniversary of Saint Pope John Paul II’s speech to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The address, delivered at Blatherskite Park in Alice Springs on November 29, 1986, prompted many dioceses to establish Aboriginal Catholic ministries as part of their pastoral work.

The Bishops Commission for Relations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council (NATSICC) are asking parishes, schools, and other local entities to mark the anniversary through activities suited to their specific communities.

NATSICC chair Shirley Quaresimin said the address was a pivotal moment for the entire Australian Church. She noted that the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on progress made over the last 40 years while remaining honest about areas where advancement has stalled.