Statement Released: Wednesday, May 10, 2006

The Catholic Bishops of Australia, meeting in Conference at Mary Mackillop Place in Sydney, today express our joy at the safe rescue of the trapped miners Brant Webb and Todd Russell.

We give thanks for the courage and strength of the men throughout their two week ordeal.

We also pay tribute to those who have worked so hard to free Mr Webb and Mr Russell, and to the Beaconsfield community which has supported the families and friends of the miners during their long wait.

We pray especially for Larry Knight, that he rest in peace, and also for his family and loved ones who mourn him.

We join with all Catholics and people of goodwill in continuing to pray for the people of Beaconsfield as authorities take stock of the magnitude of the mine disaster and the community begins looking to the future.

Released by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference