SENTINEL WATCH November 11, 2002 Issue

My proactive prayer about terrorism

By Beverly Goldsmith

BALI is a beautiful Indonesian island, just one hour's flying time from the Australian mainland. Described as "paradise" by tourists, it has long been a favorite vacation destination for young Australians.

On October 12 two powerful bombs exploded near nightclubs in Kuta, at the southern tip of Bali. About 200 people were killed, and many others were badly injured. The majority of the victims were Australians, but people of many other nationalities were among the casualties. Australian Army medical staff, federal police, and forensic experts rushed to Bali to evacuate the critically injured and to assist Indonesia with the investigation. This disaster has been called Australia's 9/11.

Since then, church services have been held all across Australia, and a national day of mourning observed. Amidst the shock and grief, questions are being asked. Was this attack retribution for Australia's support of the United States over Iraq? Is it possible to predict when and where terrorists will strike? What can Australians do to ensure our safety at home and abroad?