By Brendan Rees
Kathy Burgstahler has taken over the reins as president of the Casey Multi-Faith Network.
She was welcomed during an Annual General Meeting dinner held on Thursday 16 August.
“As president, it is my main goal to drive the group into the future and ensure that our directive is to promote peace harmony and understanding within our community, said Ms Burgstahler.
The Casey Multi-faith Network is a representation of various religions and faiths committed to working together toward the promotion of peace, harmony and understanding within the community
Jim Reiher stepped down as president after many years to give others a chance to step up and to carry the baton while Meha Nanthie, who has had experience with the Cardinia interfaith group was elected Vice-President.
Ms Nanthie has a vision to drive the group into the future and to ensure that their directive to promote peace harmony and understanding are met.
Ms Burgstahler said “This is a big change for the Casey Multi-Faith Group as it signals a new era of promoting the longevity and long term success of the group.”
As vice-president last financial year Ms Burgstahler helped introduce an annual fee of $10 per household to boost their membership.
“This not only assisted with funding but created a greater sense of ownership and commitment amongst the group. We also introduced a mix of day and night time meetings to ensure all ages, all demographics, can attend.”
Ms Burgstahler also said the wording of the Multi-Faith Statement, which is read out during council meetings will also be changed, to make it more inclusive of the entire community
Casey councillor Damien Rosario said the group worked collaboratively to educate each other on their beliefs and to promote peace and harmony.
“I see the value in having a place where new migrants can come and be welcomed, to see other the cultures and religions that we have in Casey, and to show them the very best of what we have to offer as a community and country,” he said.
“Couldn’t be more prouder to be a part of this group.”
