Statement by Cardinal George Pell

In relation to attack on Christmas Carol Service

By + Cardinal George Pell
Archbishop of Sydney
13/12/2005

This is an appeal for co-operation, a request that we all work together.

Last night parents and children attending the Christmas Carols at St Joseph the Worker Primary School in South Auburn were abused by a group of young men of middle eastern appearance. 

The families at this school are predominantly Lebanese, with Filipinos, Chinese and Anglo families also represented.

Police were called by a number of parents and the principal, but they were unable to attend because they were needed elsewhere.  A police car was provided later in the evening.  I intend no criticism of the police.  They cannot do the impossible.

After the carol service the parish priest and some parents heard what sounded like gun shots.  This morning two school staff members discovered bullet holes in their cars.  A number of spent cartridges were also found on the road near the school.  Police are yet to conclude their investigations.

This violence is unacceptable, as unacceptable as the violence perpetrated by Anglo elements on Sunday at Cronulla.

I am deeply concerned about the targeting of Christmas celebrations at schools for students as young as 5 years old.  The attack was apparently motivated by religious intolerance.  This has no place in Australia today. 

The carols service at Holy Spirit College in Lakemba scheduled for tonight has now been cancelled.  This should be an isolated exception.  Other Christian communities should not have to reschedule their Christmas services.  We ask the government to ensure their safety.

This intimidation of primary school children, their families and teachers has to stop.  All Australians, those of no religion, other religions, Christian or Muslim, have a right to be left alone to go about their business in peace, to enjoy the holiday season peacefully, to worship peacefully.

I ask all community leaders and parents, including Islamic leaders and families, to work together so that disruptive elements respect the rights of others, especially the right to worship.

At this time the Catholic community in Sydney and its agencies stand ready to co-operate with all community groups and the leaders of the Muslim community to bring about the restoration of calm and mutual respect.  I fear we may have a long way to go.