Christmas wishes from parliamentary secretary
Thursday, 24 December 2009 - Released by Laurie Ferguson MP
The Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, today extended warm wishes to all Australians as they celebrate Christmas and other religious events.
‘The festive season is a favourite time of year for many Australians – a chance to enjoy our glorious summer, spend time with loved ones and celebrate religious beliefs,’ Mr Ferguson said.
‘Many of Australia’s 13 million Christians will celebrate Christmas, sharing gifts, a special meal and other family rituals. In our nation of diverse cultures and religions, Christmas will be recognised in different ways and on different days.
While many celebrate Christmas, it is also a significant time for other faiths, including Australians of Jewish faith who celebrate Hanukkah – the Festival of Lights.
‘These important events have a common focus on love, peace, compassion and family,’ Mr Ferguson said.
Christmas is also a time to look back at how festive celebrations in Australia have changed since 1788.
‘The first Christmas service in Australia was given by Reverend Richard Johnson, who was appointed as the first Church of England chaplain to the colony of New South Wales,’ the parliamentary secretary said.
‘I wish all Australians a safe and happy Christmas and new year, no matter how you choose to celebrate during the festive season.’
Media contact: Diana Cozadinos 02 6277 4920
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au
/parlsec/media/media-releases/2009/lf09060.htm
Last update: 05 March 2012 at 16:27 AEST