Calling Christians to pray

From the Prime Minister’s speech to parliament this morning, “And I’ll say this, while you may not be able to go to church… I most certainly call on all people of faith for you to pray. I can assure you, my prayer knees are getting a good work out.”

This photo is of parliamentary prayers on Monday morning, with the Prime Minister in attendance (and all MPs practising social distancing).

ACL is joining Christian leaders across the country in calling for people to remember to pray at 7:00pm every night with their families.

For those who do not know, the House of Representatives and the Senate commence each day with prayer.

MPs and senators who wish to attend do so. There are a few more in attendance than usual in this photo, no doubt given the present circumstances.

The Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate lead with the following prayer:

“Almighty God, we humbly beseech Thee to vouchsafe Thy special blessing upon this Parliament, and that Thou wouldst be pleased to direct and prosper the work of Thy servants to the advancement of Thy glory, and to the true welfare of the people of Australia.

Our Father, which art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.”

The parliament is then open for the day and business proceeds.

Photo courtesy of: Alex Ellinghausen