The event, hosted by the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) and its Multifaith Advisory Group (MAG), brought together senior leaders from Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, Hindu, Buddhist, Baha’i, and other faith communities to reflect on how they can continue building a more peaceful and harmonious Victoria.
As part of the luncheon, each participant received a paper butterfly — a symbol of transformation and new life — on which they wrote personal messages of peace and unity. The butterflies were then exchanged among attendees in a moving gesture of connection and mutual respect, embodying the spirit of the MAG.
Sheik Muhammad Nawas Saleem, Board of Imams Victoria, said the gathering reaffirmed a shared spiritual responsibility for peace.
“In Islam, we believe that peace is a gift from God and a responsibility we all share. When we sit together across faiths, listen to one another and commit to harmony, we honour not just our own traditions but the shared values that bind us as Victorians.”
Rabbi Daniel Rabin, Rabbinical Council of Victoria, reflected on the Jewish principle of Tikkun Olam — repairing the world.
“As faith leaders from different communities came together to share our hopes for peace, we were doing exactly that. The Multifaith Advisory Group embodies this principle, working toward a Victoria where all communities thrive in harmony.”
His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, emphasised shared humanity.
“The Orthodox Christian tradition teaches us that we are all created in the image and likeness of God. Today’s gathering renewed our commitment to recognising that divine presence in one another and working together for peace, unity and the common good.”
Jasbir Singh Suropada, Sikh Interfaith Council of Victoria, highlighted the Sikh value of equality and service.
“When leaders from different faiths come together with open hearts to discuss peace and harmony, we strengthen the bonds that hold our communities together. This is how we build a Victoria that truly belongs to everyone.”
VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen AM said the event was a powerful demonstration of unity through dialogue.
“Faith leaders shared their hopes for peace, reminding us that our commitment to harmony and social cohesion transcends all faiths. The Multifaith Advisory Group remains a vital bridge between government and Victoria’s diverse communities.”
The luncheon reaffirmed the essential role of interfaith collaboration in shaping a Victoria where all people — regardless of faith or background — can live together in peace, respect, and understanding.