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 prepare to commemorate Anzac Day this upcoming Thursday, let us take a moment to honour the service and selflessness of those who have served our country. And as we acknowledge the ongoing efforts for peace worldwide, we hold fast to the powerful hope that peace can exist today and join Deacon Peter in an Anzac Day prayer of gratitude. May our Lord protect our soldiers always and keep them safe. So, let’s pray.
- An Anzac Prayer of Thanks
An Anzac Prayer of Thanks
Author: Archdiocese of Brisbane
As a deacon, I have the privilege to serve as an Australian Army chaplain. Today, I recall all who served and still serve. I especially honour those who gave everything, made the supreme sacrifice. In times of war and peace, on land, at sea and in the air. They call to us to serve others right where we are, as best as we can with what we have while we still have time. Please allow me to pray.Gracious God, on this ANZAC Day, we hold up to your eternal mercy all those who have been involved in our nation’s wars. Served locally, in theatres far and wide and on vital peacekeeping endeavours. We give you thanks, especially for those who gave absolutely everything, made the supreme sacrifice. We pray that the offering of their lives was not in vain. We pray for all those who are still serving. Bless them and their loved ones. In your name, gracious God, we dedicate ourselves to the cause of justice, freedom and peace, and for the wisdom and strength to build a better world.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Thank you for praying with us today. We hope to see you again soon. May God bless you.