One of our parishioners, Robert Barnes, embraces the opportunity to use the Blog on our new webpage. He believes that it provides an opportunity for the St Canice Community to have their voices heard on matters that affect their Church.

“The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Bill was introduced in parliament in late November 2012 and has now been referred to a Senate committee for further review. The Bill is a major disappointment to progressive Catholics concerned with issues such as the ordination of women, the participation of women in the church and priests being able to marry. The bill allows discrimination on the basis of (inter alia) gender identity, sex, marital or relationship status, and sexual orientation in relation to the ordination of priests or appointment of members of any religious order, or the selection of persons to perform functions or otherwise participate in the performance of any religious practice. There are similar exemptions in relation to bodies established for religious purposes(eg JRS) and church educational institutions. The SMH has commented that “Labor often claims to represent progressive values and is led by an atheist, but has gone out of its way to placate religious organisations on this issue.”

I propose to make a submission to the Senate committee against these discriminatory provisions in the draft Bill and urge others to do likewise.”

Parishioners are encouraged to leave their response in the ‘Reply to’ box below, or if they would prefer to speak directly with Robert, he can be contacted on 0408 834 622.