The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse

Movers Blake, G

Mr Garth Blake moving, Archbishop Philip Freier seconding

(a) gives thanks to God for the work of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse;
(b) acknowledges the significant contribution of the Royal Commission in revealing the extent of child sexual abuse in institutional contexts, identifying appropriate redress to survivors, and recommending strategies to create child safe institutions;
(c) expresses its sincere gratitude for the engagement of the Royal Commission with this Church, particularly through the attendance of the Chair, the Hon Peter McClellan AM at National Bishops Meetings, and the address of Mr Robert Fitzgerald AM at this General Synod;
(d) prays for the Royal Commission as it completes its work, and that its lasting legacy will be an Australia in which children are safe, including in this Church.

Immediately following carriage of the motion, the Chair of the Royal Commission Working Group led the General Synod in prayer for the Royal Commission:

God of Truth,
We pray for the work of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
Give courage and healing to those who tell their stories of suffering.
Give compassion to the Commissioners as they listen
Give them the insight to pose questions
And wisdom to weigh testimony.
Bring your Church to true repentance
As we face our sins and failures.
In the midst of anger, grief and despair
Give us grace to shape a future
Where children and other vulnerable people
Will be safe to flourish in body, mind and spirit.
Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord.

8 September 2017

Resolution year: 2017
Resolution number: 67/17