*Artwork by Queenie McKenzie, theme image for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday 2019.*

As we leave behind the wonderful celebrations of our Indigenous brothers and sisters in NAIDOC Week and National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday, let us not leave behind our commitment to a better future.

The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council has provided a Prayer for Reconciliation as part of its Liturgy resources for 2019. It’s a prayer we can all pray together in love, humility and hope.

Prayer for Reconciliation

God of all creation,

as we journey together in this Great Southern Land,

we pray for healing, forgiveness and unity,

creating a path of good will, with justice and compassion.

Jesus, through the power of your love, you have given us the courage, wisdom and strength to share our gifts and talents in humility.

In peace and understanding we reconcile with each other.

Creator Spirit, we come together in prayer and thanksgiving for the many blessings we have received. Allow your Spirit to wash over us and give us strength to walk together as one.

This Reconciliation Church prayer was written by a small group of Aboriginal Elder women and Reconciliation Church staff members in 2014. Find it and more liturgical resources on the NATSICC website.