Latest news with #StPatricksCathedral
News.com.au
23-07-2025
- Politics
- News.com.au
Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne breaks silence on video of Muslims at St Patrick's Cathedral
The Archbishop of Melbourne has broken his silence after a video showing thousands of Muslims gathered outside the city's largest church went viral around the world. exclusively reported last weekend that footage filmed on July 7 outside St Patrick's Cathedral showing the annual Ashura Muslim procession had drawn a huge response globally. Videos of the event had been viewed millions of times and attracted the attention of anti-Islam personalities with huge followings around the world, many of whom suggested it showed something sinister taking place. Some prominent Australian ex-politicians also joined the pile-on, including former Victorian Liberal politician Bernie Finn who wrote: 'Pretty damn odd, thousands of Muslims surrounded St Patrick's Cathedral in Melbourne.' But as this author pointed out, the footage was selective and misleading and characterised a peaceful event — a significant day in Islam, particularly for Shia Muslims — as something dangerous. On Tuesday afternoon, after being approached by Archbishop Peter Comensoli issued a statement calling for calm and clarifying that the event has the support of the church. 'On 7 July, members of the Shia Muslim faith community in Melbourne engaged in a religious procession through the streets of Melbourne,' he said. 'This was a peaceful event that has occurred annually for over a decade. This procession has been misrepresented in some quarters as an attack on Christians and, specifically, on St Patrick's Cathedral. This is simply not the case. 'Like all Victorians, the Islamic community is entitled to exercise freedom of religion. As Catholics, we expect nothing less.' understands that the Catholic Archdiocese has been in contact with leaders within the Shia community to discuss the misrepresentation of the procession on social media and to assure them that they had no problem with the procession. But concerningly, the Archbishop said he has been made aware of 'a rally being organised for this weekend which appears to be a protest against the procession'. 'Such a rally does nothing for peace and harmony, nor for promoting religious freedom,' he said. 'I strongly urge people not to attend the rally and hope the organisers have the wisdom to call it off. Instead, I urge Catholics and all people of good will to take up the call of Pope Leo to pray for peace in our world, for an end to war and suffering. 'As Catholics, we place our trust in Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. May He reign in all our hearts.' has seen the protest promotional material. It reads: 'Our monuments and heritage deserve respect. It is unacceptable for Australia's Christian monuments to face hostility and disrespect.' But as was pointed out several days ago, there was no disrespect — the Ashura procession has been taking place along the same route since 2009. Social media videos of the event suggested that Muslims stopped outside the church to chant in an act of deliberate provocation. watched a video of the entire 1hr 42min procession. It showed the group stopping at 30 second intervals. Videos showing the Shia gathering appearing to chant directly at the church appeared to be misleading. They showed the backs of hundreds of Muslims who had lined the side of Albert Street. The procession was passing between them and the Cathedral, moving along the street when footage was shot from a low angle. The Ashura Committee which organised the event told the group took longer passing the Cathedral because it had to account for traffic, including trams passing in front of the iconic bluestone church. 'We're accommodating Yarra Trams and the size of the procession itself. It's not just that it has to stop, it's just the length of it stops,' a spokesperson said. Management at the Hossaini Society of Victoria, a non-profit Islamic Community Organisation based in Melbourne, gave a similar account of the 'brief stop' outside the church. 'The brief stop near St. Patrick's Cathedral was simply a point where participants paused to allow others to catch up and for traffic management purposes,' a spokesperson said. 'There was no religious or political intention behind stopping at that particular location.' A Victoria Police spokesperson confirmed to they were aware of the event and respect the rights of individuals 'to practice their faith peacefully'. 'Police were aware the annual Ashura Procession took place in Melbourne on 7 July. There were approximately 5000 people in attendance and the crowd was well behaved. 'There were no incidents during the event that were reported to police. Victoria Police respect the right for individuals to practice their faith peacefully.' A police source told police believe the group paused at Albert Street near the Cathedral to allow the tail end of the group in the march to catch up. The story initially gained traction when right-wing internet personalities took exception to the footage. British anti-Islam campaigner Tommy Robinson, who has a legion of fans including 1.3 million followers on X, shared a video with the words: 'Insane scenes as hundreds of Muslims circle Melbourne cathedral.' It was viewed almost two million times and followed by thousands of hateful comments. Failed Liberal candidate for Sydney's Northern Beaches, Katherine Deves, whose views on the trans community were met with backlash across both sides of politics in 2022, wrote of the scenes: 'A horde of Muslim men surround Melbourne's St Patrick's Catholic cathedral in a display of dominance & intimidation.' Ashura marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who stood against injustice and oppression 1400 years ago and died for what he believed in — which happened to be a peaceful and spiritual version of Islam. Ashura falls on the 10th day of the Islamic calendar month and processions take place in major cities all over the world — including New York, London and Melbourne. A map shared by organisers of the Melbourne procession shows the route each year travels from Treasury Gardens along Landsdowne Street, turns left on Albert Street, goes past St Patrick's Cathedral to Parliament House on Spring Street and finishes back in Treasury Gardens.
News.com.au
18-07-2025
- Politics
- News.com.au
Viral video of ‘Muslims surrounding Melbourne cathedral' is completely misleading and inaccurate
Millions of people around the world have watched viral videos on social media showing thousands of Muslims gathered outside Melbourne's largest church, St Patrick's Cathedral. The videos, filmed on July 7 this year, are accompanied by comments like 'the real war exposed' and 'this is an act of war', but they miss important context and information. British anti-Islam campaigner Tommy Robinson, who has a legion of fans including 1.3 million followers on X, shared a video with the words: 'Insane scenes as hundreds of Muslims circle Melbourne cathedral.' It was viewed almost two million times and followed by thousands of hateful comments. Failed Liberal candidate for Sydney's Northern Beaches, Katherine Deves, whose views on the trans community were met with backlash across both sides of politics in 2022, wrote of the scenes: 'A horde of Muslim men surround Melbourne's St Patrick's Catholic cathedral in a display of dominance & intimidation.' Former Victorian Liberal politician Bernie Finn shared the footage on social media, writing: 'This is pretty damn odd. Thousands of Muslims surrounded St Patrick's Cathedral in Melbourne.' Right-wing podcasters have pounced on the footage, asking whether the gathering outside one of the largest symbols of Christianity in Australia was 'truly part of the route or ... a show of presence, maybe even strength?'. The footage does show thousands of Muslims outside St Patrick's Cathedral. But it has nothing to do with Christianity or intimidation. The truth is far less dangerous and scary. What the footage actually shows is a procession of Muslims doing the same thing they have done for 12 years. They are participating in a religious commemoration of Ashura — a significant day in Islam, particularly for Shia Muslims. It marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who stood against injustice and oppression 1400 years ago and died for what he believed in — which happened to be a peaceful and spiritual version of Islam. Ashura falls on the 10th day of the Islamic calendar month and processions take place in major cities all over the world — including New York, London and Melbourne. A map shared by organisers of the Melbourne procession shows the route travels from Treasury Gardens along Landsdowne Street, turns left on Albert Street, goes past St Patrick's Cathedral to Parliament House on Spring Street and finishes back in Treasury Gardens. A spokesperson for the Ashura Committee told that just like every year police and the City of Melbourne were fully aware of the event. They said Victoria Police sent a letter this year thanking them for a peaceful, well organised procession. The spokesperson said the group had even reached out to members of St Patrick's Cathedral and the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne to discuss some of the negative things being suggested about the event on social media. 'The procession in the city has been happening since 2009. It is purely a religious commemoration. It's non-political event,' the spokesperson said. He said the negative commentary, which aims to marginalise Muslims, was 'unfortunate but not entirely unexpected'. 'Claims in the videos (that the group surrounded the church) are completely false,' he said. 'The way it was captured seems to be almost convenient in a sense. Because the march takes the same route every year, it becomes convenient to target that location (with photographs and videos as they pass).' Social media videos of the event suggest that Muslims stopped outside the church to chant in an act of deliberate provocation. But organisers say that could not be further from the truth. . It shows the group stopping at 30 second intervals to chant and beat their chests. The rhythmic beating of their chests is a form of mourning and remembrance known as Matam — an expression of grief and sorrow over tragic events. The Ashura Committee spokesperson said the group took longer passing the Cathedral because it had to account for traffic, including trams passing in front of the iconic bluestone church. 'We're accommodating Yarra Trams and the size of the procession itself. It's not just that it has to stop, it's just the length of it stops.' Videos showing the Shia gathering appearing to chant directly at the church appear to be misleading. They show the backs of hundreds of Muslims who have lined the side of Albert Street. The procession is passing between them and the Cathedral, moving along the street. A Victoria Police spokesperson confirmed to they were aware of the event and respect the rights of individuals 'to practice their faith peacefully'. 'Police were aware the annual Ashura Procession took place in Melbourne on 7 July. There were approximately 5000 people in attendance and the crowd was well behaved. 'There were no incidents during the event that were reported to police. Victoria Police respect the right for individuals to practice their faith peacefully.' A police source told police believe the group paused at Albert Street near the Cathedral to allow the tail end of the group in the march to catch up. The Ashura Committee spokesperson said the irony of those social media criticisms is that 'in order for us to be considered Muslims, we have to respect other religions including Christianity and Judaism'. 'Given what had happened, and understanding the members of the church would be impacted by it, we're actually making an active effort to communicate with the church and clear up any misunderstanding that might exist. We're actively reaching out,' he said. reached out to the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne for comment but did not receive a response. Management at the Hossaini Society of Victoria, a non-profit Islamic Community Organisation based in Melbourne, told they are aware of the discussions taking place on social media. 'The brief stop near St. Patrick's Cathedral was simply a point where participants paused to allow others to catch up and for traffic management purposes,' a spokesperson said. 'There was no religious or political intention behind stopping at that particular location.' They reiterated the importance of interfaith understanding and respect. 'It's also important to note that Muslims hold Jesus Christ and his mother Mary in the highest regard. We honour them as sacred figures and share with Christians a deep reverence for their role in faith and history. 'Furthermore, we hold deep respect for all ethnic and religious communities of Australia and strongly believe in living together in harmony. 'The peaceful observance of this procession over the last 12 years without any incidents or complaints is a testament to this commitment. We are proud to contribute positively to the multicultural fabric of our society through mutual respect and understanding.'
Yahoo
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
NFL Star Zach Wilson Marries Nicolette Dellanno at Iconic N.Y.C. Cathedral: 'Best Night Ever'
NFL star Zach Wilson married Nicolette Dellanno in New York City on Saturday, June 28 The couple tied the knot at St. Patrick's Cathedral before heading to the Rainbow Room for their reception Wilson and Dellanno announced their engagement in June 2024Zach Wilson is married! A year after announcing his engagement, the NFL star, 25, wed Nicolette Dellanno in New York City on Saturday, June 28. The couple said 'I do' at St. Patrick's Cathedral before heading to the nearby Rainbow Room to dance the night away with loved ones. Dellanno reposted several photos and videos from the nuptials, including several of the pair exiting the N.Y.C. cathedral hand-in-hand. For the ceremony, she wore a silky, corseted, off-the-shoulder gown. The top featured boning and mesh side panels, and was draped with lace floral embellishments, which also cascaded down her arms. The skirt was covered in silky floral details, and completed with a long train, which trailed behind her — along with her veil — as she exited the ceremony. Wilson, meanwhile, looked dapper in a classic black tuxedo and bow tie. The Miami Dolphins quarterback also accessorized with a butter-yellow floral lapel, which perfectly complemented his wife's bridal bouquet. For the reception, the athlete, who signed with the Dolphins earlier this year, and his wife switched into different looks. Dellanno opted for a strapless, mermaid-style white gown, and Wilson swapped his black suit jacket for a cream-colored one — but not before the pair made their big entrance at the post-ceremony bash. Guests excitedly welcomed the newlyweds to the Rainbow Room, per footage the venue shared on Instagram Stories. And the couple matched the crowd's energy, dancing as they entered the room to Bruno Mars' song 'Marry You.' The venue shared more glimpses into the reception, including a video of Wilson lifting Dellanno during their first dance to 'From the Ground Up' by Dan + Shay. The celebration also featured a taco station and, for the official menu, spicy rigatoni, baked salmon and filet mignon, per photos shared by the Rainbow Room. Dessert, meanwhile, was a five-tier cake adorned with white roses and gold details, including the couple's initials: 'N&Z.' In a fun detail, guests were provided glow sticks, which filled bins labeled with the message: 'Light up the dance floor.' And they did, Dellanno later revealed in a photo she shared on her own Instagram Stories. Alongside the dance-floor snap, the bride wrote, 'Best night ever.' Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Dellanno and Wilson first announced their engagement in June 2024 with photos of the couple — and the engagement ring — on vacation in Amalfi, Italy. 'Zach, you are the best thing that has ever happened to me,' Dellanno wrote in her Instagram post sharing the happy news. 'Every day I admire your strength and I'm so incredibly proud of you. I'm so in love with you and can't wait to spend the rest of our lives together 🤍. I love you.' Wilson, meanwhile, wrote, 'To the love of my life, I never truly understood what love was until I met you. You're not just my partner, but my best friend and my everything. I can't wait to make a lifetime of memories with you, Nic ❤️. I love you.' Read the original article on People
Yahoo
11-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
At Sunday Mass in New York, Americans celebrate their new pope
By Maria Tsvetkova NEW YORK (Reuters) - Excitement rippled through New York City's St. Patrick's Cathedral on Sunday morning, the first since an American was picked to lead the Roman Catholic Church in a selection that surprised and delighted many of his countrymen and women. At Sunday Mass, the landmark, Gothic-style church - the focal point of Catholicism in the most populous U.S. city - was brimming with worshippers eager to celebrate the unexpected achievement of Chicago native Robert Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV. Many were happy to share their thoughts on the new pontiff and the variety of ways they could relate to him personally. On the steps leading to the cathedral gates, Patrick Sheridan, who came to the Mass from New Jersey, stood alongside his wife Mary. The couple were elated to learn that the new pope was a graduate of Philadelphia's Villanova University, the same school many of their family members attended. "We were extremely excited when we heard about it," Patrick Sheridan said. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York, was still in Rome on Sunday after the pope's selection, Monsignor Joseph LaMorte, the archdiocese's vicar general, told parishioners during Mass. LaMorte, who is Dolan's deputy, said he was keen to meet with the cardinal when he returns to New York. "We can't wait to hear some of the stories that he's allowed to talk about," LaMorte said. "You know the secrecy of the conclave is very, very serious." Jason Graham, speaking outside the cathedral, said having an American Pope could help improve the image of the United States abroad. "Our country's not looking so great, especially with the current administration," Graham said, referring to President Donald Trump's tariffs and other policies that are unpopular in other countries. "But I think that (the new pope) is a positive influence for America, and I think he's going to have a positive impact on how other people in the world will see America," he said. For Lucero De Paz, a Hispanic American from Texas, the most appealing aspect of Leo XIV's background was his missionary and humanitarian work in Peru, where the new pope spent decades and was granted a second citizenship. "I felt a lot better, I think, about where he stands as far as immigration issues that are happening today," De Paz said. "Well-being of all Latinos is a huge issue to me, not just as a Christian and Catholic, but also culturally." Trump has taken a series of aggressive measures aimed at cracking down on illegal immigrants, many of them from Latin America, since he took office in January. Sadie Murlaney, who hails from Scotland, came to New York to celebrate her birthday and stopped by St. Patrick's for the Mass. She said she was happy to learn that the new pope took the same name as her first grandson Leo. Murlaney said she would pray for the pope to help restore peace in the world. "With all the wars going on, it's not a nice place just now," she said. "We hopefully pray for him to help any way we can."
Reuters
11-05-2025
- Politics
- Reuters
At Sunday Mass in New York, Americans celebrate their new pope
NEW YORK, May 11 (Reuters) - Excitement rippled through New York City's St. Patrick's Cathedral on Sunday morning, the first since an American was picked to lead the Roman Catholic Church in a selection that surprised and delighted many of his countrymen and women. At Sunday Mass, the landmark, Gothic-style church - the focal point of Catholicism in the most populous U.S. city - was brimming with worshippers eager to celebrate the unexpected achievement of Chicago native Robert Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV. Many were happy to share their thoughts on the new pontiff and the variety of ways they could relate to him personally. On the steps leading to the cathedral gates, Patrick Sheridan, who came to the Mass from New Jersey, stood alongside his wife Mary. The couple were elated to learn that the new pope was a graduate of Philadelphia's Villanova University, the same school many of their family members attended. "We were extremely excited when we heard about it," Patrick Sheridan said. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York, was still in Rome on Sunday after the pope's selection, Monsignor Joseph LaMorte, the archdiocese's vicar general, told parishioners during Mass. LaMorte, who is Dolan's deputy, said he was keen to meet with the cardinal when he returns to New York. "We can't wait to hear some of the stories that he's allowed to talk about," LaMorte said. "You know the secrecy of the conclave is very, very serious." Jason Graham, speaking outside the cathedral, said having an American Pope could help improve the image of the United States abroad. "Our country's not looking so great, especially with the current administration," Graham said, referring to President Donald Trump's tariffs and other policies that are unpopular in other countries. "But I think that (the new pope) is a positive influence for America, and I think he's going to have a positive impact on how other people in the world will see America," he said. For Lucero De Paz, a Hispanic American from Texas, the most appealing aspect of Leo XIV's background was his missionary and humanitarian work in Peru, where the new pope spent decades and was granted a second citizenship. "I felt a lot better, I think, about where he stands as far as immigration issues that are happening today," De Paz said. "Well-being of all Latinos is a huge issue to me, not just as a Christian and Catholic, but also culturally." Trump has taken a series of aggressive measures aimed at cracking down on illegal immigrants, many of them from Latin America, since he took office in January. Sadie Murlaney, who hails from Scotland, came to New York to celebrate her birthday and stopped by St. Patrick's for the Mass. She said she was happy to learn that the new pope took the same name as her first grandson Leo. Murlaney said she would pray for the pope to help restore peace in the world. "With all the wars going on, it's not a nice place just now," she said. "We hopefully pray for him to help any way we can."
