But from these difficult origins, you, and many thousands more like you have helped build a nation filled with hope and promise. This is your history, our history. Your experiences and those of all migrants and refugees to this nation have shaped Australian culture. In this story there is much to be proud of. It is also a story in which we recognize the need for true reconciliation.
All people have a right to love and value what is good in their own heritage.
Our children have a right to that inheritance so that they know where they came from and know where they are going. All people have a right to self-respect and dignity. In order to maintain these rights, each of us must work to ensure reconciliation and justice. This message is at the heart of all that the Catholic Church has built and achieved in this country and in this Archdiocese. In this the Church tells you, without any qualification, that each one of you and your children are not only welcome, but that the Church in Melbourne needs your gifts and talents.