AUSTRALIANS have become more acutely aware of their unique position in the Asia-Pacific region as peacekeepers since East Timor broke away from 25 years of Indonesian rule and terrorism reared its ugly head.
Now Pope John Paul has supported this mission by asking Australia to take the lead as an agent of peace in the region.
His call is based on truth and goodness, not military might or a desire to impose a chosen ideology on others.
The Pope is asking Australians to recognise humanity’s common dignity from God and the need for solidarity on issues of justice and the freedom of peoples.
Only then will Australia be able to fulfil its peace role in an increasingly complex world.
In the words of the Beatitudes, blessed are the peacemakers.
