One size fits all terrorism

John Richardson writes: Re. “Brandis pushed aside in counter-terrorism confusion” (yesterday). Whilst some might agree with Judge Tony’s view that Australians who take up arms in foreign military adventures are akin to terrorists and should therefore be stripped of their citizenship, others would argue that there are other equally important traits that should be considered in making such assessments.

Perhaps our crusading warrior prince should stop trying to recast the notion of good citizenship to fit his fear-based obsession with national security and start reflecting on how well he measures up when it comes to supporting the under-privileged, showing genuine concern for the needy, defending the rights of others, showing compassion for the neglected, displaying tolerance towards others, extending common courtesy and consideration, being truthful and trustworthy, championing and not debasing the rule of law, demonstrating moral character and courage, taking personal responsibility and accountability, supporting positive change,and being community focused and respecting the ultimate authority of the people.

No doubt the British would be delighted to take him back.

Religion, compassion and asylum seekers

Keith Binns writes: Re. “On asylum seekers and the church” (Friday).  No, John Gleeson is largely right. Individual churches and individual Christians are speaking out on Refugee Policy (down here in Goulburn we had a special service yesterday at the Anglican Cathedral about asylum seekers) and I’m involved with the Refugee Action Committee in Canberra and recently sang this new song at a protest. The church leaders aren’t making nearly enough noise.

John Gleeson writes: Re. “Christians not standing idly by” (Monday).  Cameron Smith misses the point — why is the church invisible in the media and public perception over the humanitarian crisis?  Where is the moral leadership, and outright condemnation of the immoral behaviour of Abbott, Shorten and co over this issue? We need a Bishop von Galen or Pastor Niemoller, or Desmond Tutu, and instead have an absent  bureaucrat in the Vatican.