The Bondi terrorist attack has had an immense impact on our community, especially our Jewish community. The following day the NSW Faith Affairs Council held an emergency session to bring together faith leaders and show our unambiguous support for our Jewish brothers and sisters.
This expanded Faith Affairs Council was joined by two Jewish leaders Rabbi Nochum Schapiro of Chabad House and Rabbi Benjamin Elton of the Great Synagogue.
When asked what our faith communities could do to help the Jewish community Rabbi Nochum Schapiro responded with two requests.
One, to stand with our Jewish community and show unambiguous support.
And two, do one mitzvah. An act of kindness or charity. To bring some light into the world.
In light of the Rabbi's response, the Faith Affairs Council with support from the Minns Government is launching the #OneMitzvahforBondi campaign.
Asking all Australians to undertake one act of kindness, compassion or charity, and to share their good deed with the wider community. You can do this through:
- Volunteering
- Donating
- Giving blood
- Calling someone you haven't spoken to in a while
- Buying a neighbour a coffee
- Supporting those in need.
Please share your good deed, by using #OneMitzvahforBondi or visit: nsw.gov.au/onemitzvah
One Mitzvah for Bondi is an initiative of the NSW Faith Affairs Council.
Chair of the NSW Faith Affairs Council Right Rev Dr Michael Stead, of the Anglican Church of Australia said:
"At the core of our faith communities is a commitment to love and compassion.
"The NSW Faith Affairs Council encourages everyone to take part in the One Mitzvah for Bondi campaign, to spread warmth and kindness to our fellow Australians.
"I would like to sincerely thank our Jewish leaders for their grace and guidance during this unfathomable period of grief."
President of the Rabbinical Council of NSW Rabbi Shua Solomon said:
"This unspeakable horror has touched every Jew and every Australian. Our only response to this profound darkness can be with light.
"We ask every Australian to honour the memory of our lost not only with words but with action, unity and faith - by doing good."
Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:
"In the face of this terrible atrocity our Jewish community have responded with remarkable kindness and compassion.
"This call to action is the remedy our heartbroken city requires at this time. It can be something as small as calling in on a neighbour, or an act of service like helping out at a food kitchen or donating blood.
"Every single one of us has an obligation to build the world we want to live in. Now is a time for us to unite, first and foremost, as fellow Australians."
