The light of hope: faith leaders unite against antisemitism
Faith leaders from across the Berowra electorate in Sydney’s North united last night at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral in Waitara for a historic display of interfaith solidarity against antisemitism under the theme “Unity, Hope, and Light.”
Bishop Anthony Randazzo and Julian Leeser
This year, December 25th marks a rare and special occasion as Christmas and the first night of Chanukah coincide, an alignment that will not occur again for another century. Recognizing the shared themes of both festivals—light, joy, and hope—faith leaders, including Bishop Randazzo, are encouraging Australians to light a candle in their windows on Christmas night. This candle, placed beside Christmas trees or menorahs, will serve as a symbol of solidarity with the Jewish community and a commitment to combating antisemitism.
Led by Bishop Anthony Randazzo of the Diocese of Broken Bay, the gathering brought together Christian denominations, the Baha’i community, and Jewish leaders to offer prayers, reflections, and messages of hope. The initiative was not only a response to recent troubling instances of antisemitism in Australia but also a proactive celebration of unity and shared values.
The evening featured heartfelt prayers and reflections from prominent Christian leaders, including Rev. Nich Cole of Mt. Colah Uniting Church, Pastor Tim Kay from Thornleigh Community Baptist Church, and Pastor Fabian Edian of the Seventh Day Adventist Church at Waitara. Saman Samini of the Baha’i community spoke about the importance of light and unity in an era of increasing global division. Jewish community leaders Rabbi Paul Lewin of The North Shore Synagogue, David Ossip, President of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, and Alex Ryvchin, Co-Chief Executive Officer of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, emphasized the significance of interfaith solidarity in combating hatred and fostering understanding.
The event drew support from a broad coalition of faith leaders across the Berowra community, underscoring the shared commitment of diverse religious groups to standing against antisemitism. Julian Leeser, the federal MP for Berowra and a staunch advocate for social cohesion, played a central role in organizing the gathering. Addressing the audience, Leeser said, “I know that the vast middle of Australia abhors the antisemitism we have seen on our streets. This was a wonderful demonstration of good Australians wanting to stand with the Jewish community.”
Groupphoto including Rabbi Paul Lewin, David Ossip, Julian Leeser and Alex Ryvchin
The call to action extends beyond symbolism. Participants are invited to share photos of their candles on social media using the hashtag #standagainstantisemitism, amplifying the initiative and inspiring others to join the movement. Bishop Randazzo explained the profound meaning behind this act: “Lighting a candle connects us not only to the themes of our traditions but also to a universal hope for peace, unity, and an end to hatred. In these times, we stand in solidarity with the Jewish community, remembering our shared history, mutual respect, and solidarity. We call for peace to fill every heart, for healing to mend the divisions among us, and for understanding to replace the ignorance that fuels bigotry.”
Julian Leeser also emphasized the broader societal significance of this gesture: “This is not just about standing with the Jewish community; it’s about showing that our society does not tolerate hate or division. It is about reaffirming that good Australians stand together.”
Attendees widely praised the event, describing it as uplifting and deeply moving. It was a moment to celebrate shared values, foster mutual respect, and renew a commitment to interfaith collaboration. Leaders of all faiths present agreed that such initiatives are essential in fostering understanding and bridging divides.
