Faith leaders renew bonds and pledge support for social cohesion across Victoria

Senior representatives from Victoria’s diverse faith communities have gathered in Melbourne for a lunch dedicated to renewing friendships and strengthening the collective commitment to peace, unity and social cohesion across Victoria.

The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) Multifaith Advisory Group (MAG), comprising senior representatives from Victoria’s Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, Hindu, Buddhist, Baha'i and other faith communities, met on Thursday 23 October to reflect on ways to build a more peaceful and harmonious Victoria.

MAG members shared the hopes and aspirations of their respective communities, and pledged to work together for the benefit of the broader Victorian community. Open, respectful and robust interfaith discussions defined the gathering.

During the lunch, participants received a paper butterfly – a symbol of transformation and new life – on which they were each invited to inscribe a personal message.

Participants contributed heartfelt sentiments and ideas for peace and unity, before exchanging their butterflies with one another in a profound moment of connection and understanding – a moment that exemplifies the essence of the MAG.

Quote attributable to Sheik Muhammad Nawas Saleem, Board of Imams Victoria

“In Islam, we believe that peace is a gift from God and a responsibility we all share. Today’s gathering reinforced this beautiful truth. When we sit together across faiths, listen to one another and commit to harmony, we honour not just our own traditions but the shared values that bind us as Victorians.”

Quote attributable to Rabbi Daniel Rabin, Rabbinical Council of Victoria

“In Jewish tradition, Tikkun Olam – repairing the world – is central to our faith. Today, as faith leaders from different communities came together to share our hopes for peace, we were doing exactly that. The Multifaith Advisory Group embodies this principle, working toward a Victoria where all communities thrive in harmony.”

Quote attributable to His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia

"The Orthodox Christian tradition teaches us that we are all created in the image and likeness of God. Today’s gathering renewed our commitment to recognising that divine presence in one another and working together for peace, unity and the common good across Victoria’s diverse faith communities."

Quote attributable to Jasbir Singh Suropada, Sikh Interfaith Council of Victoria

“In Sikhism, we believe in Langar – the concept of community service and equality for all. Today’s gathering reflected that same spirit of unity and mutual care. When leaders from different faiths come together with open hearts to discuss peace and harmony, we strengthen the bonds that hold our communities together. This is how we build a Victoria that truly belongs to everyone.”

Quote attributable to Vivienne Nguyen AM, VMC Chairperson

“Today’s luncheon showcased the power of interfaith dialogue. Faith leaders shared their hopes for peace, reminding us that our commitment to harmony and social cohesion transcends all faiths. The Multifaith Advisory Group remains a vital bridge between government and Victoria’s diverse communities.”