The first priority in Archbishop Mark’s Apostolic Priorities for the Archdiocese of Brisbane, documented in With Lamps Ablaze, is Teaching Prayer. He says, “Often we urge people to pray but don’t really teach them how to pray… Now is the time to teach ways of prayer which are mature and all-embracing. Christian prayer begins not with speaking but with listening; and learning to pray is therefore learning to listen – to listen even to the silences of God. If all we do is speak, then in the words of Jesus we “babble like the pagans” (Matt 6:7). But if we speak after listening and in response to God who always has the first word, then we speak according to the mind of the Holy Spirit. That’s what we need to teach and learn. In the Gospel of Mark, we read that Jesus called the twelve apostles to himself, first of all, “that they might be with him” (3:14). This is where the mission starts: being with Jesus, which is what prayer is.”

Join us for our new weekly series, Let’s Pray, where we invite you to pray along with us. Each week we will invite you to pray a new prayer with us – maybe you don’t know what to pray, or want to pray along with someone, or want to practice your faith through prayer. Our Let’s Pray series is for everyone.

As we celebrate the gift of fatherhood, let us reflect on the profound role fathers play in shaping the lives of their children and families. Embracing the example of St Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, fathers are called to be steadfast in their love, guidance, and protection. Through their daily sacrifices, wisdom, and unwavering support, fathers mirror God’s own paternal love.

• Let's Pray - A Prayer for All Fathers

  Let's Pray - A Prayer for All Fathers

  Author: Archdiocese of Brisbane

  
  Hi my name is Eric Robinson, Associate Director for Inclusion at Evangelisation Brisbane. As we celebrate Father’s Day, we take a moment to honour and pray for all fathers. Those who have embraced the gift of fatherhood in various forms. Whether through birth, adoption, mentorship, or spiritual guidance, fatherhood is a profound and sacred responsibility. For myself, becoming a father has allowed me to better understand God’s incredible love for us. There is nothing my children could ever do that would stop me from loving them, and that is but a glimpse of the immense and unconditional love God has for all of us. So today, we offer this prayer, acknowledging the unique challenges and blessings that come with being a father. Let us pray.

  Heavenly Father, today, we lift in prayer all fathers those who have children in their care, those who long to be fathers, and those who play the role of a father in the lives of others. We ask for Your blessings upon each of them, wherever they may be. Lord, bless the fathers who lovingly guide their children, offering support, gentleness, wisdom, and encouragement each day. May they find strength in You, knowing their efforts are seen and valued. We pray for fathers who have lost children, those who face the pain of absence or estrangement, and those who are separated by distance. Grant them Your comfort and peace, may they feel Your presence in their moments of sorrow and longing. Bless those who yearn to be fathers but have not yet received that gift. May they be filled with hope and patience, trusting Your perfect timing and plan for their lives. We also remember those who act as fathers to the fatherless, offering love, guidance, and stability to children who need it most. May they continue to reflect Your divine fatherhood, bringing light and love into the lives they touch. In Your Holy Name, we pray. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

  Fatherhood takes many forms, each with its own set of joys and challenges. As we honour fathers today, let us also remember the profound impact they have on shaping the lives of those in their care. Whether through direct parenting, mentoring, or simply being a guiding presence, fathers play a crucial role in our lives. Let us continue to support and pray for them, asking God to strengthen and guide them as they carry out this important work.