National Reconciliation Week
Every year, National Reconciliation Week is celebrated from the 27 May to the 3 June. These dates were chosen to celebrate and remember two significant events in the reconciliation journey of our nation, the successful 1967 referendum on 27 May and the High Court Mabo decision, on 3 June.
National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to discover more about the shared histories, cultures, and achievements of our wonderful country. It is a chance for us to find out how we can contribute towards the goal of achieving reconciliation in Australia as we build connections and learn to truly value the histories, cultures and futures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Every year there is a theme attributed to National Reconciliation week, which reinforces the idea that we all have a part to play. The theme for 2021 ‘more than a word’ is a tribute to that. Reconciliation takes action, so this year’s theme is all about taking action.
At St Paul’s we will celebrate Reconciliation Week with a Prayer Assembly on Friday, 28 May 2021. Each class will also plan an activity focusing on how we can contribute towards the goal of achieving reconciliation in Australia, or how we can build on positive and respectful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.
Let us ask God for forgiveness, and for healing and hope for the future ...
Compassionate God, In the rich cultures of our Indigenous Peoples, You speak your loving word.
Forgive our well-intentioned decisions which, in the past, have led to pain and loss. Give gladness to our Indigenous Peoples and ease their sorrow.
Bring us closer in reconciliation and peace through Jesus Christ, our Lord, and in the Spirit of Love.
Amen.