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Embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in the Life of the Catholic Church
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord,when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?…’ And the King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”
— Matthew 25:37–40
A roadmap to walk together
Across our country, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have carried the message of Jesus in deep and powerful ways. Their spirituality is ancient, their faith is strong, and their presence in the Church is a gift to all of us. But there is still work to do.
NATSICC’s Embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in the Life of the Catholic Church is a warm and practical roadmap for Catholic parishes and organisations to reach out, connect with, and fully embrace Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in every part of Church life. Whether you’re a parish priest, staff member, volunteer, PPC member, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, this guide offers clear, thoughtful steps you can take
— no matter your setting or size.
Approved as a key outcome of the Fifth Plenary Council of Australia, the Embracing document is more than a guide—it’s a National call to action. It affirms that the Church in Australia is called to walk alongside First Nations peoples with humility, openness, and love. It offers organisations and faith communities real, grounded ways to act—ways that respect culture, honour Elders, and build meaningful relationships rooted in faith.
Officially endorsed by the plenary council
What’s inside the document?
At its heart, Embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in the Life of the Catholic Church invites parishes and Catholic organisations to live out the Gospel through relationship, respect, and renewal. Grounded in Catholic teaching and shaped by the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics, the document provides a vision for how every community can take meaningful steps toward a more inclusive and culturally enriched Church.
It outlines five practical and pastoral recommendations, each supported by stories, theology, and examples that are realistic and achievable. The emphasis is not on grand gestures, but on genuine commitment and ongoing action.
This is a living document—designed to be prayed with, discussed, and most importantly, lived out in community.
Recommendations & what they could look like
Acknowledge the Traditional
Custodians
Begin gatherings or liturgies with an Acknowledgment of Country and include signage at your entrance.
Celebrate culture in
Catholic life
Use Indigenous artwork, language, and music—especially during events like Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday.
Connect with local
community
Reach out to local Aboriginal organisations or Elders to build relationships and listen deeply.
Include First Nations
voices
Invite Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people into leadership roles, ministries, and planning groups.
Commit to ongoing
formation
Encourage your team, council or staff to reflect on the Embracing document together and take steps forward in faith.
Invite local voices. Share a meal and start a conversation.
Together, let us build a Church that not only welcomes, but embraces.
Download the document here
One small step can begin the journey
The Holy Spirit is already moving in our Communities. Sometimes all it takes is one conversation, one meeting, one prayer said together—to spark something new.
Bring the Embracing Document to your next team meeting or pastoral planning day. Print the checklist.