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 embrace this year’s theme for International Women’s Day, “Inspire Inclusion”, we invite you to join us in a prayer for women across the world. As we gather in prayer, we draw upon the wisdom and faith of women from our Catholic heritage, and asking for their intercession in creating a world where every woman is valued, heard, and empowered. So, let’s pray.
- A Prayer to Encourage Women
A Prayer to Encourage Women
Author: Archdiocese of Brisbane
Hi, I’m Jess Higgo, Learning Management Systems Administrator at the Archdiocese of Brisbane. And I’m Joni McCourt, Archdiocese RAP Manager. Today, we invite you to join us in prayer for women across the world, as we embrace this year’s theme for International Women’s Day, “Inspire Inclusion.” As we gather in prayer, we draw upon the wisdom and faith of women from our Catholic heritage, asking for their intercession in creating a world where every woman is valued, heard, and empowered. Let’s pray.In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Heavenly Father, we come before You inspired by the courage and faith of women around the world. We are reminded of the women throughout history who have paved the way for our progress and who have embraced the call to bring about inclusion and unity. Saint Mary MacKillop, who fought for the voiceless of her time, while enabling those in need to find their voice; guide our efforts to cherish all women. Blessed Virgin Mary, our Mother, you responded to God’s call with faith and love.
Teach us to embrace Your ‘yes,’ empowering us to be instruments of peace, love, and justice. We pray for women around the world, that they may be uplifted, protected, and respected. Grant us the wisdom to appreciate the unique talents and contributions of each woman and girl. Let them shine in the Church and in society. Guide us to be companions in their journeys, voices for their causes, and hands to lift them in their moments of need. We make this prayer through Christ, our Lord, in unity with the Holy Spirit.
In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
May we continue to be inspired to act with love and inclusion in all that we do. Thanks for joining us. We hope to see you again soon.