It’s a special time of year, not just for our city, but for communities all over the world.
This year Lunar New Year, Lent and Ramadan all started within 72 hours of each other, which hasn’t happened for 163 years. To top it off, today, on the 3rd of March, is the celebration of Holi.
To see these four significant moments align so closely is incredibly rare and won’t happen again within any of our lifetimes.
For Logan, as one of the most multicultural cities in Australia, this is more than a coincidence on the calendar. It speaks to who we are.
In our city, it is entirely possible for neighbours to be observing different traditions on the same day, while sharing the same streets, schools and workplaces with respect and understanding. That is something we should all celebrate.
Families have come together to welcome the Lunar New Year with hope and prosperity.
Members of our Muslim community have begun Ramadan, a sacred month of reflection, prayer and generosity. Some Christians are observing Lent, a season of contemplation and renewal.
This week, Holi brings colour, joy and celebration to our parks and neighbourhoods for our Hindu community.
Each of these traditions carries deep meaning and great strength.
Not just as important religious occasions but also for the cultural and social significance to each of the communities that practice them.
Time and again, especially during natural disasters and times of hardship, our faith communities are among the first to step forward.
They offer practical support, supplies and comfort to those doing it tough. Their doors and hearts are open.
At last year’s inaugural Mayor’s Multifaith Breakfast, I saw this spirit first-hand. More than 300 people from all walks of life gathered to listen to local faith leaders and break bread together.
It was a powerful reminder of the respect and unity that comes from spending time with one another.
I hope to see even more people at this year’s event as we continue to grow as one of the most multicultural cities in Australia.
You can visit www.loganarts.com.au and search “Multifaith” to book your tickets.
This is what Logan does best. We come together. We look out for one another. And we celebrate the community that makes our city such an amazing place to live.
