“You are my friends” (Jn 15:14)

When COVID-19 began to impact negatively on all aspects of our lives last year, we questioned when the situation would turn around for the better. We heard a lot of predictions but in reality, no one knew when the pandemic would end. And we still don’t.

In terms of avoiding lockdowns and COVID infections, Western Australia has been very successful. However, it has come at a cost. Border closures, sadly, have kept loved ones apart and led to an increase in mental health issues. Some of the hardest hit areas have been Aboriginal communities in the Kimberley region. The Diocese of Broome is calling for volunteers to assist for three months in these communities. To find out more click the link below.

Kindness is a trait that is sometimes in short supply. Just think of how people interact on social media or while driving on the road. Think how children socialise at school or in the playground. Or how family members interact at home. How often have you witnessed behaviour that can be described as unkind? How often have you struggled to be kind especially when someone is mean to you? This week’s Majellan article examines the Christian call to be kind.

The shocking scenes at Kabul airport — reminiscent of the images of the fall of Saigon in 1975 — highlight the desperate situation many Afghans face following the unexpectedly quick Taliban victory. In the 1970s, the Fraser government responded generously to the plight of the Vietnamese people seeking refuge in Australia, taking 15,000 refugees a year. In contrast, last week, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced Australia will take in 3,000 Afghan refugees.