Rev Chris Moroney’s statement on ANZAC Day

This year as we celebrate Anzac Day it is 95 years since the first Anzacs landed on the shores of Gallipoli. It is also some 60 years since the peace came with the end of World War Two.

The two events go together. On the one hand the failed campaign on the edge of some barren land gave the Australian and New Zealand forces a reputation for tenacity and mateship. It reinforced that sense of nationhood in the fledging Federation of Australian States. On the other hand, the end of World War Two was the whole point of the troops going to war and risking their lives, and for many giving their lives in the service of their country. In between there is a lot of fighting, and many lives lost.

As we remember them, we do not glorify war. We honour the memory of those who fought for peace and stability in many different theatres of war. It is true to say that we remember their service. But we also need to say that it is God’s blessing that we still have peace and stability now. It is their service, God’s blessing and our heritage.

At this time we also remember the nine service personnel who died in the Sea King Helicopter accident. We should continue to pray for their families and friends as they grieve at this time.

We also acknowledge the way in which the Defence Forces are engaged on our behalf in a range of relief and peace keeping operations in many parts of the world. We should never take our present peace and prosperity for granted.

We should be thankful to those who have served us and do continue to serve us in the Army, the Navy and the Air Force. We should be thankful to God for the freedoms we enjoy and continue to look to Him for future blessings.

Rev Chris Moroney
President of the NSW Council of Churches