THE Anglican Bishop of Canberra and Goulburn, Stuart Robinson, has announced this Sunday will be a day of lamentation and a will feature a public apology “to those hurt by the Anglican Church”.

On behalf of my Episcopal colleagues and the leadership of the Anglican Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn, I wish to convey our deep and genuine sadness in relation to the pain and brokenness that people have experienced as a result of their engagement with our Church.

I take this opportunity to apologise for any abuse or mistreatment that those sharing in this event may have experienced by individuals or groups connected with our Church.

We know that hurt and sorrow can last for decades – indeed generations – and so we’d value the opportunity to work with people towards wholeness, forgiveness, reconciliation and restoration – and trust that this service might begin to address such things.

Our aim is to create and grow communities of faith that are safe, life-giving, transformative and Christ-honouring.

In addressing personal grievances and unresolved conflict, we’ll be better placed to achieve our aim.

Thank you for sharing in this gathering with us.