EASTER SUNDAY 2023

Jesus is risen! The good news is that the crucified Jesus whom a cruel, imperialistic power crucified was brought back to life. The spirit of God in Jesus came to show us life which the powers responded to with what the cross represents. In the last couple of years, books by Father Greg Boyle have made an impact on me. Barking to the Choir and Tattoos on the Heart. When I contemplate the presence of Mary at the tomb, a quote from Boyle comes to mind: ‘God was – and is – in the heartbreak and in the insight born of sadness, and in the arms that wrap around our grief.’ Boyle writes about people with tattoos inked over their bodies but also tattoos they may not be aware of - tattoos in their brains where they see their core identity, or are seen by others, as B-O-R-N-S-C-U-M. 

Last week, following a powerful campaign by the Vanuatu government together with grassroots Pacific Islander climate activists, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution seeking an Advisory Opinion from the International Court of Justice on climate change, human rights and intergenerational equity.

The Edmund Rice Centre for Justice and Community Education acknowledges and mourns the passing of a great Gumatj man, great thinker, and significant cultural leader Dr. Yunupingu. His leadership and contribution to the Yolngu community, other First Nations communities and Australia as whole has been felt by past, present and in future generations to come. Vale Dr Yunupingu.