The idea that people of faith have a shared responsibility to protect "our common home" was theme of this year's Abraham Day event hosted by the University of Notre Dame Australia in Fremantle last Thursday.
The interfaith event brings together leaders of Western Australia's Muslim, Jewish and Christian communities - which all share a common origin Abraham - to focus on issues that unite them and strengthen the bonds of friendship.
During the panel discussion, Catholic Diocese of Perth Archbishop The Most Reverend Timothy Costelloe SDB pointed to the story of Genesis and how people were created in the likeness of God to be "stewards of the world".
Perth Hebrew Congregation Chief Rabbi Daniel Lieberman built on the Archbishop's comments by discussing the Psalms that praise God for the wonder of creation, and how all religious followers were encouraged to act as "caretakers" for our planet and its biodiversity.
Islamic community of Perth Teacher and Leader Sheikh Muhammed Agherdien highlighted the Quran's passages that urge humans to take care of the environment. He also thanked Notre Dame for the gift of the olive tree he received last year, calling it a constant reminder of the shared bonds between us all.
Notre Dame Vice Chancellor Professor Francis Campbell said the insights from the day brought a unique perspective to the public square on this important topic.
The introductory remarks were followed by a lively and thought-provoking Q&A panel in which topics of ecological degradation, climate change, consumerism, and future preservation were discussed.
