Who is My Neighbour?

A desire for compassion often rises in us when we see someone in great need. But another question often arises: "Who is my neighbour?", perhaps seeking to limit, "Who am I responsible for?" People have long asked such questions to define who they should care for. At Anglicare, we are grateful that, in partnership with you, we have the resources for a broader scope of compassion. We're thankful we can do more together, focusing our services on those with the greatest needs, including people and communities often overlooked.

Alongside your generosity, we show neighbourly love, care and professional support to a growing number of people and communities in Sydney and in a growing number of regional areas in NSW. Together, we meet our neighbour in children and families seeking safety and support; in older Australians experiencing isolation or insecurity; and in marginalised, under-resourced communities. We have the joy of serving the orphan, the fatherless, the widow, and the poor. While there are of course many other areas of neighbourly need, we aim to see those whom others have passed by and make a transformative impact.

In an increasingly connected world, it's been noted we are more polarised, more isolated, and lonelier. The question, "Who is my Neighbour?" is revealing, not just for Anglicare, but for each of us as we consider the boundaries of our neighbourliness. So, what act of kindness or conscience step will move us to notice unseen neighbours in our lives, streets, workplaces, and communities, those others may walk by, but whom we can, in simple yet profound ways welcome as neighbours?

Grace and peace.

Andrew Ford
Group Executive
Community and Mission