40 years on: Remembering St John Paul II’s Alice Springs address
Image: Supplied
2026 marks the 40th anniversary of St Pope John Paul II’s landmark address to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples at Blatherskite Park in Alice Springs on 29 November 1986.
CathNews has published an article highlighting the anniversary and the call from NATSICC and the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference for Catholics across Australia to mark this important moment through reflection, celebration and a renewed commitment to walking together.
Speaking to CathNews, NATSICC Chair Shirley Quaresimin described the address as a pivotal moment for the Church in Australia and an opportunity to consider both the progress made over the past 40 years and the work that remains.
To support communities in marking the anniversary, NATSICC has developed a number of resources for parishes, schools and Catholic organisations. NATSICC has also published the full text of St Pope John Paul II’s 1986 address, allowing communities to revisit his words and reflect on their continuing significance for the Church in Australia.
Read NATSICC’s 40th Anniversary resources and the full 1986 address