Anglican Church of Australia
Tuesday 20 October 2026
‘IF WE HATE, HATRED WILL DEVOUR US’
ANGLICAN LEADER OFFERS PRAYERS FOR MEMBER FOR INDI, CALLS FOR PEACE
The leader of the Anglican Church of Australia has urged Australians to guard their hearts against hatred, as the country mourns an attack on Indi MP Helen Haines.
Bishop Mark Short, Primate of the Anglican Church of Australia, offered prayers for Ms Haines and her family, and said this was a grave moment in Australia’s political history.
“Hatred wants to devour us, and we must not let it,” he said. “Every person must guard their heart against hatred, which is a deadly virus that infects relationships and societies.”
Politicians from all parties have condemned the growing hatred in Australian political discourse, and have warned that violence has no place in politics.
Bishop Mark called on Australians to be peacemakers who speak graciously to people with different views to their own— even those who oppose them aggressively.
"We have forgotten as a society Jesus’s command to ‘love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you’. These words were first spoken to people frustrated by injustices, just as many of us are today. But hatred and violence are never the answers— if we hate, hatred will devour us.”
Bishop Mark urged Australians to see that their greatest enemy was not their political opponents, but the hatred within their hearts.
“As our political debate becomes increasingly heated, we all have a part to play in bringing the temperature down. We can all search our own hearts to see where hatred is lurking, and take steps to fight the infection.
“If social media is causing you to hate and despise others, cancel your account. If your words are full of anger and violence, keep a close watch over the doors of your mouth. Find the peacemakers and learn from them. Seek peace and pursue it.”
Bishop Mark urged Christians to pray for our elected representatives and for peace.
“May God grant safety, wisdom, courage and perseverance to our elected leaders, and may all Australians seek peace and work together to address injustices.
“We pray especially for the member for Indi, Helen Haines, her family and friends, asking that the God of all comfort would uphold them at this time.
“We give thanks for first responders, emergency personnel and the medical staff caring for her.”
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