Last weekend saw a decisive win for the state Liberal-National Coalition led by Barry O’Farrell. Labor was swept out of office in the biggest swing in Australian political history, the Greens’ dream turned sour, Family First failed to win a seat, the Christian Democratic Party is back to two members in the Legislative Council, and …
Is religion set for extinction?
According to a study using census data from nine countries, religion is set for extinction. The data, stretching back as far as a century from countries that have included a census question on religious affiliation, reflect a steady rise in those claiming no religious affiliation. Researchers using a technique called non-linear dynamics have predicted that religion …
Faith in Australian society
On Monday, the Australian Human Rights Commission launched its latest publication, Freedom of religion and Belief in 21st Century Australia. The report, prepared for the Commission by the Australian Multicultural Foundation, offers no formal recommendations but provides a snapshot of attitudes on religion, and highlights a number of apparent challenges facing contemporary Australia in relation …
Julia Gillard a “cultural traditionalist”
To the surprise of many of the Labor faithful, and indeed to the surprise and delight of many people of faith, Prime Minister Julia Gillard revealed to the nation this week that she is a “cultural traditionalist.” Ms Gillard said she was raised in “a quite conservative family” in Adelaide, and her parents instilled in …
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Does Jesus love Osama?
By Rod Benson Scores of churches around Australia have been displaying large posters with the words, “Jesus loves Osama”. The poster is part of a series of advertisements designed by Outreach Media to promote what it sees as “the heart of the gospel”. But the notion that the Son of God would demonstrate affection for the …
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