Fed: Rudd urges tolerance at Christmas

AAP General News (Australia)
12-24-2006
Fed: Rudd urges tolerance at Christmas

KEVIN RUDD has urged Australians to respect one another's religious beliefs and to
think of the poor and ill this Christmas.

In his festive season message .. the Opposition Leader says it's time to reflect on
how blessed Australia is .. but to remember that not everyone is so fortunate.

He says Christmas also causes us to reflect on our responsibilities beyond ourselves
.. for the lonely .. for those suffering illness and for those who have very little.

Mr RUDD says for those of the Christian faith .. Christmas is a time of special spiritual
significance .. which all people of goodwill respect.

But he says just the same respect is needed to those of other faiths .. and those of no faith.

The new Labor leader says people should also pray for Australian military personnel
serving overseas .. who won't be with their families on Christmas Day.

AAP RTV dcr/wz/els/

KEYWORD: XMAS RUDD (CANBERRA)

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