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.

On September 29, we celebrate the Feast Day of Saint Michael the Archangel, the patron saint of all police officers. This time also coincides with National Police Remembrance Day, where we honour the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their communities. Let’s take a moment to express our gratitude for all serving and retired officers. Please join us in pausing to pray for those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

• Let's Pray - National Police Remembrance Day Transcript

  Let's Pray - National Police Remembrance Day Transcript

  Author: Archdiocese of Brisbane

  
  It is a privilege to serve as one of the Queensland police chaplains. I’m here at St Michael’s parish church at Dorrington. It is fitting to be here because on the feast of Saint Michael’s who is the patron saint of all police, we commemorate National Police Remembrance Day. Today and always we remember and give thanks for those police officers who gave everything, gave their very lives in noble service and protection of their community. We also say thank you for all serving and retired police. Please allow me to pray.

  Almighty God, whose great power and eternal wisdom embraces the universe. Embraces our very hearts, we remember and we give thanks for the officers who gave their all in selfless sacrifice for others. You know they served with honour. Loving God, watch over all police officers. Give them the strength, courage and perseverance to endure always. We commend them all to Your loving care knowing that their duty is vital. Gracious God, grant them Your almighty protection, unite them safety with their families and friends after each duty has ended. We also pray for retired officers and know You bless their service. We ask this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  Thank you for praying with us today.