CATHOLIC groups and religious leaders from across Australia have welcomed news of a ceasefire in the war-torn Middle East.
United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan brokered the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanese group Hezbollah, which came into effect on August 14.
The ceasefire follows Middle East Peace Sunday, celebrated on August 13 across Australia, urging all Australians to reflect on the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, Gaza and Israel and to call for peace.
Caritas Australia and the Brisbane Catholic Justice and Peace Commission (CJPC) have welcomed the ceasefire.
Caritas Australia chief executive officer Jack de Groot said the ceasefire would allow Caritas partners to begin the urgent task of assisting the many in need.
CJPC executive officer Peter Arndt said the ceasefire offered a respite from the tragic violence of the last few weeks for all the people of Lebanon and Israel.
Maronite Bishop Ad Abikram prayed on Middle East Peace Sunday that a peaceful resolution to the conflict was achieved.
Meanwhile, French Cardinal Roger Etchegaray has been sent by Pope Benedict XVI on a mission to Lebanon to express the Pope’s “spiritual nearness and real solidarity” to the people of Lebanon.
