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Geelong Deanery |
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Jubilee 2000 Public RallyA very significant public rally took place in Johnstone Park, Geelong, on Saturday, 19 June, to further advance one of the goals of Jubilee 2000. Following the very successful Jubilee 2000 Petition that was sponsored by many churches and community organisations, seeking a debt-free start to the new millennium for over a billion people, the rally was held on the day when the leaders of the world’s richest countries were meeting in Cologne, Germany, in what was called the G8 summit. The rally was planned by the Combined Geelong City Churches as a public expression of the continuing support of Geelong Christians and people of goodwill for the petition that was presented to the world leaders at the Summit. It was an important sign of solidarity with the impoverished people, especially of the Third World, who are burdened by the backlog of unpayable debts that amount to trillions of dollars. The principal speaker was Fr Brian Gore, Superior of the Columban Missionary Fathers, who himself shared in the sufferings and injustices inflicted on the impoverished people of the Philippines, even to the extent of being imprisoned as he defended their basic human rights. He gave an inspiring address that focused on the way poor people struggling to earn a living were exploited by the rich landowners and denied what they needed to support their families. Among other things, Fr Gore pointed out it was to Australia’s benefit to urge the cancellation of these unpayable debts, as that would enable many of these countries to provide markets for our commodities, since they would be in a position to buy our products. At the same time we campaigned for the cancellation of these debts, we must also strive to eliminate corruption, and unjust political structures in these countries. While the number who attended was disappointing – about 180 – the spirit of support and commitment to the cause of Jubilee 2000 was most enthusiastic and encouraging. One feature was the presence of many of our secondary students, especially the members of VOYAGE, from all our Catholic secondary colleges, whose banners and posters were colourful and proclaimed the message of Jubilee 2000. The Combined Secondary Schools Concert Bank, under the direction of Amy Wert, with the quarter of male vocalists from St Mary’s Choir, provided excellent music that encouraged the participation of the audience, and generated enthusiasm for the message of Jubilee 2000. Roger Kent was a dynamic compere. Our sincere thanks to all who attended and showed their support for the cause. We hope that the message of ‘A debt-free start to the new millennium for a billion people’ will continue to gain support in the wider community. Monsignor James Murray |
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