Expressions of solidarity

BLESSINGS

THE Denis Hurley Centre is delighted to extend Diwali greetings to all who are celebrating this wonderful festival.

The image of shining light in the darkness of our world is one that is central to Diwali. I am pleased to note that it also appears in other faith traditions. We believe that the Denis

Hurley Centre is an example of light in the darkness – and we are grateful for the support that we get for our work from individuals and organisations in the Hindu community.

Situated in the heart of the city – but sadly in an area which has become quite dirty and neglected – our building looks a bit like a lighthouse. That is not a coincidence since Archbishop Denis Hurley grew up in lighthouses, and Alan Paton called him “The Guardian of the Light”.

We hope to be a light that welcomes all men and women, however dark and difficult their lives are: homeless people, refugees, drug users, the unemployed.

We work with them to help re-ignite the divine light in their lives: a light which sadly for many has been extinguished by circumstances and poor decisions. Light also helps us to see clearly. It enables us to see how we can work with each other to build a better society for all. And it also helps us to see – and speak out against – those forces of destruction, corruption, racism and xenophobia that make life darker for everyone.

We offer our blessings and expressions of solidarity at this time and pray that the light of service will shine forth ceaselessly from our hands.

Perrier is the director of the Denis Hurley Centre.

RAYMOND PERRIER