After yet another interest rate rise, a continuing cost of living crisis and flattening global economy, Anglican Bishop of Newcastle, Dr Peter Stuart is calling on Australians to unite for the common good.
Speaking from the new Samaritans Family and Community Services hub at Islington, Bishop Peter said there is a growing sense of disconnect amongst the community.
“One of my concerns at the moment is that the ordinary population, the ordinary community, is losing faith in our politicians because when we’re struggling we actually go, do you understand?”
“Politicians and members of Parliament are meeting regularly with members of the community to help sort out their needs. So, I do want to encourage us to move away from that narrative that says that politicians don’t understand.”
“And we do need to begin with an understanding that the politicians are listening. But we have complex problems at the moment in Australia.”
“We need all parties, all members of Parliament to be trying to work together for what creates the common good.”
Each year, Samaritans responds to community need through more than 100 services across the Hunter, Central Coast and Mid North Coast.
Samaritans annual Christmas Appeal funds some of these vital programs year round, as well as several Christmas lunches for anyone in need.
“Australians have built in this idea of a fair go for other people and we know what it’s like when some people aren’t getting a fair go.”
“We want to give them a step up so that they’re able to see themselves better, be enthusiastic about themselves, feel a sense of purpose and worth. And our generosity makes a difference in that.”
“I do encourage people to think about how they might be able to offer the equivalent cost of two cups of coffee to provide some support through the Samaritans Christmas Appeal to help people who are most in need at this time of year” Bishop Peter said.
