9 March 2022

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May we continue to pray for those in need: those involved in the tragedy unfolding in the Ukraine, Russia and Poland, and the suffering and loss experienced by many Australians impacted by flood waters. Last Friday staff and students had the opportunity to gather in the William Carey chapel to pray for our world. Our school chaplain, Gerry Riviere, provided us with these two prayers which I encourage readers to continue to pray.

A silent prayer for people experiencing the floods We pray for those who have lost loved ones and those who have loved ones missing. We pray for the SES volunteers. We are thankful for the courage, generosity and kindness of so many. We pray for God’s comfort and strength in the coming days as the clean-up commences and the extent of the devastation becomes known. Amen.

A silent prayer for people of Ukraine We pray for a nation whose entire population now lives in fear and despair. We are thankful that Poland is opening its arms to the people who are fleeing. A nation whose history is now marked with profound sadness. For those who grieve the loss of life and the loss of all they have ever known. We pray that you would grant wisdom to world leaders as they attempt to find a peaceful solution with someone whose actions strike both fear and disgust. We thank you for the courage shown by those Russians who are prepared to protest their government’s involvement in this unnecessary war. We pray that the international community would be generous and kind to the people of Ukraine. Amen.

Now that we are in the church season of Lent in the lead up to Easter, the Carey community is encouraged for 40 days to:

  • fast – change your decision making and avoid the things you might want but don’t need
  • pray – talk to God about those in need
  • give – share your time and energy with causes that make our world a better place.

May the following poem help shape our school and family interactions, our trust in God and the message of his son Jesus the Prince of Peace, and inspire us to continue to support others.

Slow me down today, Lord, and whisper a word or two – or more, in the quiet of my mind and heart...When I'm cursing myself or others, whisper words of blessing...When I'm judging another's words and deeds, whisper words of patience...When my voice is still and silent, whisper words that I might speak...When I'm saying much too much, whisper words to encourage me to listen...When I've failed and when I’ve done wrong and sinned, whisper words of pardon...When I'm facing loss and grief, whisper words of consolation...When I'm stuck in my own foolishness, whisper words of wisdom...When I'm confounded and confused, whisper words of counsel...When I'm caught up in my lies, whisper words of truth. When life is just too tough to take, whisper words of hope...When my heart is broken, hurt and wounded, whisper words of healing...When I'm at war with my neighbour or myself, whisper words of peace... Slow me down, Lord, and help me find a quiet place to hear the whisper of your word...Slow me down today, Lord, and whisper a word or two – or more, in the quiet of my mind and heart...

Attributed to writer and academic Rev. Austin Fleming.

Rev. Scott Bramley
Middle School Chaplain

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