Expressions of Love for Muslim Communities Across Australia

Individuals and communities across Australia met in an outpouring of love and support for their Muslim brothers and sisters in mosques and prayer services Sunday, 17 March following the tragic events last week in Christchurch, New Zealand.

More than 2000 people attended a prayer service organised by the Islamic Council of Queensland, including community leaders and Elder Carl B. Mauer and Elder Robert J. Dudfield, Area Seventies of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

QLD Premier Annastacia Palaszcuk expressed, “We gather in sorrow, but we gather united.”

In Perth, hundreds of community members and leaders visited the Mirrabooka Mosque and the Bibra Lake Mosque services, extending their respect and love to their Muslim friends.

Lorenzo Margraf, Bishop of the Church’s Thornlie Ward (congregation) was honoured to share his thoughts at the Bibra Lake prayer vigil.

“Each of you has the power to affect change amongst friends, family, and community members by standing for love and respect for all religions and all people.”

Philip Baker, 2^nd Councillor in the Australia Perth Mission of the Church was asked to be the final speaker by Sheik Mohamad Davids at the Mirrabooka gathering.

He reflected that those listening must have been touched by his words, “Forgiveness of all people would have been taught by the Prophet Mohamad,” as many people afterwards shook his hand with tears in their eyes.

In Victoria, multiple mosques such as the Virgin Mary Mosque, held memorial services hosted by the Islamic Council of Victoria which also coincided with an Open Day for the public to celebrate diversity.

Vanessa Woolley who felt privileged to visit the Geelong Mosque west of Melbourne said, “Instead of this tragic event dividing us, it has united Christians with other faiths in support of our Muslim community.”

South Australia also held services which were widely attended. Saleem Shaukat of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community South Australia expressed appreciation for those attending their Vigil/Prayer Invitation in Adelaide.

“Your presence was a great sign of your love, respect, kindness and affection towards our community.”

In support for Muslim communities and others impacted by the Christchurch shootings, the Pacific Area Presidency of the Church issued a statement. To read their statement of support, click here.