Pastoral Message from the Moderator – Bondi Tragedy

Uniting Church WA Moderator Rev David Jackson has expressed his deep sadness at the tragic attack at Bondi Beach, which occurred during a Hanukkah celebration on Sunday 14 December 2025.

Uniting Church WA Moderator Rev David Jackson has expressed his deep sadness at the tragic attack at Bondi Beach, which occurred during a Hanukkah celebration on Sunday 14 December.

He has written to leaders in the Jewish community of Western Australia conveying condolences, and offers of prayer and support on behalf of the Uniting Church WA.

There is no place in our society for such hatred and violence.

The Uniting Church WA stands with the Jewish community as they mourn loved members of their community who have died and the many who are injured and many others traumatised by these events.

Last night at the Uniting Church WA Synod Standing Committee meeting the Moderator led those gathered in a reflective pause for a minute of silence, to light a candle of peace and to pray.

Rev David Jackson has offered the following prayer of solidarity with Australia’s Jewish Community

Merciful God,
We come before you with heavy hearts for the victims and all who were affected by the recent act of terror that targeted the Jewish community in Bondi Beach.
We mourn the precious lives lost and pray for comfort for their grieving families and friends. We ask you to bring healing to those who are injured and strength to all who are living in fear and trauma.
Lord, as a united community, we stand in unwavering solidarity with our Jewish neighbours. We unequivocally condemn this act of hatred and all forms of antisemitism, which have no place in our nation.
Grant us the courage and wisdom to be instruments of your peace, working without ceasing to establish justice and mutual respect. Help us to stand together against hatred, ensuring that love and unity will prevail over division and violence.
Protect our communities and empower us to support one another, demonstrating that an attack on one Australian is an attack on us all.
May the memories of the victims be a blessing, and may perpetual light shine upon them.
Amen

Uniting Church in Australia Response to Bondi Attack

Uniting Church in Australia President Rev Charissa Suli has released a statement in response to the tragic events that took place at Bondi Beach on Sunday 14 December 2025 which can be found on the UCA Assembly website here.

Rev Suli has also offered a pastoral message and prayer which can be found on the UCA Assembly website here.