Religious Dimensions

A prayer for National Reconciliation Week

A Prayer for Healing Country features the artwork, ‘Tree of Life’ by Safina Stewart, Common Grace’s National School Partnership Coordinator. The Prayer is written by Aunty Dr Doseena Fergie and brings three generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people together - Aunty Doseena, her daughter Safina, and Safina’s eldest daughter Arieta, set to a moving soundtrack by Stu Fergie of Oka Music, Aunty Doseena’s son.

God of Mercy and Grace –

in your quest to bring about justice. You understand what it is like to persevere in an unjust society when you suffered and died on the Cross Have mercy on us.

This Land weeps in sorrow. It is filled with sadness and grief because of the atrocities of the past and present. Have mercy on us.

We yearn for conciliation and peace in this place. To yarn and listen deeply to each other with Care and Compassion.

God of Truth –

You are pure and true – we worship you for who you are. There is no one like you – for you shine in the darkness.

Enable all the peoples of this Country to desire, listen and understand the True History of this Land. For only then can we walk this journey together.

Jesus, you are the tree life. Help us to be your instruments of Truth, by the Power of your Holy Spirit.

We pray for discernment and wisdom to impart your Truth.

Deliver us from devastation and bring about Healing to Country and our communities.”

Our Healer –

May all Creation, the birds, animals, fish, trees, plants, rocks, mountains, waters, and peoples be healed to flourishing.

Strengthen us, lead us, inspire us into action, ignited by our faith in you Lord Jesus.

Help us not to lose Hope.

For it is only through justice, forgiveness and Love can there be Healing and Peace.

Amen.

Watch the video of the prayer here. 

I thank Meg McCallum (Grade 1/2MM teacher) for leading this prayer with our staff this week. 

Mini Vinnies

WE ARE SUPPORTING THE VINNIES WINTER APPEAL

Did you know that over two million people live below the poverty line in Australia, including over half a million children?  Your donation allows the St Vincent de Paul Society to provide the opportunity of a better life for families in need. OLA is thrilled to see the return of the Mini Vinnies Winter Appeal from May 9th - June 24th. 

During this time, we ask families to donate what they can, non-perishable food like pasta and rice, cans of food, toiletries (soap, shampoo and toothpaste) and warm winter items like beanies, scarves, gloves, socks, and blankets. All these items will make a difference in the lives of people who need assistance the most. 

Please try your best to donate whatever you can, and we very much appreciate all items. Please bring your donations to your class where it will be collected by the Mini Vinnie leaders. Thank you for your generosity. 

By Eleni, Jai, Xander, Evelyn, Lana, Alyssa and Suyen, Tiarnan 

Mini Vinnie Leaders

Caitlan Taig

Religious Education Leader