Be Kind, Be safe, Be respectful, Be responsible, Be resilient, Be ready

Dear Parents and Carers

Why do we pray?

Prayer is a deeply personal and spiritual practice that holds different meanings for different individuals. While the reasons for praying may vary, here are a few common reasons why many people choose to pray:

1. Connection with God: For individuals who believe in a higher power or a divine presence, prayer serves as a means to establish and nurture a personal relationship with that power. Prayer allows them to feel connected, seek guidance, and find solace in their faith.

2. Reflection and Self-Examination: Prayer provides a space for introspection and self-reflection. It allows individuals to pause, quiet their minds, and examine their thoughts, actions, and intentions. Through prayer, one can seek clarity, evaluate their values, and strive for personal growth and self-improvement.

3. Gratitude and Appreciation: Prayer offers an opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for the blessings and abundance in one's life. Taking time to acknowledge and thank a higher power for the good things helps cultivate a sense of humility, contentment, and appreciation for the gifts received.

4. Guidance and Strength: In times of difficulty, uncertainty, or decision-making, prayer can be a source of guidance and strength. It provides a space to seek wisdom, clarity, and courage to face challenges, make important choices, and navigate through life's ups and downs.

5. Healing and Comfort: Prayer can be a source of comfort and solace during times of pain, grief, or emotional distress. It allows individuals to express their deepest emotions, find solace in the presence of a higher power, and seek healing for themselves or others.

6. Community and Unity: Prayer can bring people together, fostering a sense of community and unity. It creates a shared experience, allowing individuals to come together in, faith support one another, and collectively seek blessings, healing, or peace. It is important to note that prayer is a personal practice, and its significance may vary based on one's beliefs, culture, and individual experiences.

Ultimately, the decision to pray or engage in any spiritual practice is a personal choice that can bring comfort, guidance, and a sense of connection to something greater than oneself.

Your challenge this week is to find the word ‘Dialogical’ (another topic I will be studying in Leuven) hidden somewhere in the newsletter. As soon as you find the word email me at principal@olsscowes.catholic.edu.au. Good Luck! Congratulations to Clare Bailey as she was the first one to find last week's word.

Keep smiling

Cathy

Planning for 2024