Prayer

On the back of National Sorry Day (26 May), as we near the end of National Reconciliation Week 2023 (27 May – 3 June) themed, “Be a voice for generations” and, as we move towards the referendum later this year, it is good to remember the Reconciliation Prayer.

We stand in solidarity with our Presentation sisters and brothers as they seek to bring peace, justice and healing to our nation at this time. 

Reconciliation Prayer

(Wontulp Bi-Buya Indigenous Theology Working Group 13 March 1997 Brisbane, Qld – Courtesy of https://www.natsicc.org.au/reconciliation-week-prayers.html)

Holy Father, God of Love,

You are the Creator of all things.

We acknowledge the pain and shame of our history

and the sufferings of Our peoples,

and we ask your forgiveness.

We thank you for the survival of Indigenous cultures

Our hope is in you because you gave your Son Jesus

to reconcile the world to you.

We pray for your strength and grace to forgive, accept and love one another,

as you love us and forgive and accept us in the sacrifice of your Son.

Give us the courage to accept the realities of our history 

so that we may build a better future for our Nation.

Teach us to respect all cultures.

Teach us to care for our land and waters.

Help us to share justly the resources of this land. 

Help us to bring about spiritual and social change 

to improve the quality of life for all groups in our communities, 

especially the disadvantaged.

Help young people to find true dignity and self-esteem by your Spirit.

May your power and love be the foundations 

on which we build our families, our communities and our Nation, 

through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Venerable Nano Nagle, Pray for us