By Alex Kats (Jewish co-chair)
2025 marks the 40th year of the Council of Christians and Jews, Victoria. Forty is a significant number in both Judaism and Christianity, long enough that we can look back with great fondness to those who had the foresight and fortitude to begin the process of creating greater understanding between our two faiths. Councils of Christians and Jews were formed as people sought to address the tragedy of the Holocaust. The 1947 Seelisberg conference (in Central Switzerland) brought Jews and Christians together, determined to combat antisemitism, through the establishment of similar organisations in other countries. The 1965 Vatican II document ‘Nostra Aetate’, which set the Catholic Church on a new path in its relationship with Judaism and other faith traditions, also contributed to the founding of the Council in Victoria.
Since the inaugural meeting in February 1985, the Council has produced prominent journals, hosted the visits of Chief Rabbis, Cardinals and Archbishops, and connected with Christians and Jews in Victoria and across the country. With all the upheaval in the Middle East and the explosion of antisemitism here and around the world in recent years, the work of the Council has increased, strengthened by the friendships and relationships built over many years. This year, we look back not only on what has been achieved, but on what we have learned through our dialogue and how we can continue to meaningfully engage with one another.
Join us at our 40th anniversary celebration and the launch of our journal, Gesher, celebrating four decades of walking together. The event will also include a cultural performance by students from the Worowa Aboriginal College and a musical performance by Lior. Tickets are $25 and include a kosher light supper and a copy of Gesher. To book, go to: https://events.humanitix.com/ccj-at-40
Enquiries should be addressed to info@ccjvic.org.au.
