DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
National Sorry Day is an Australia-wide observance held on May 26 each year, followed by Reconciliation Week. This week gives people the chance to come together and share the steps towards healing for the Stolen Generations, their families, and communities.
Sorry Day PrayerAlmighty and loving God,
You who created ALL people in your image,
Lead us to seek your compassion
as we listen to the stories of our past.
You gave your only Son, Jesus,
who died and rose again so that sins will be forgiven.
We place before you the pain and
anguish of dispossession of land,
language, lore, culture and
family kinship that Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander peoples have experienced.
We live in faith that all people
will rise from the depths of despair and hopelessness.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Families have endured the pain
and loss of loved ones, through the
separation of children from their families.
We are sorry and ask God’s forgiveness.
Touch the hearts of the broken, homeless
and inflicted and heal their spirits.
In your mercy and compassion
walk with us as we continue our journey
of healing to create a future that is just and equitable.
Lord, you are our hope.
Amen.
© Aboriginal and Islander Commission
National Council of Churches in Australia, 2002
The Power of Story in Education: Understanding Ourselves and Others
Service-Learning is an essential part of a LORDS education. As we learn and serve together, we understand the importance of the concept of story. Stories serve as the threads that weave us together, they are vital tools for understanding ourselves and others. In education, stories play a crucial role, offering deep insights into diverse perspectives and fostering a more inclusive, empathetic learning environment.
Why Stories Matter
Stories are fundamental to human connection. They allow us to share experiences, express emotions, and build empathy. Through storytelling, we can explore different cultures, histories, and personal journeys. Understanding someone else’s story helps us to see the world through their eyes, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of empathy.
Our Year 1 Living Historian project based learning unit, allows are young people to understand the stories of senior citizens in our community. In Year 9, through our Street Retreat, students get to hear the first hand experiences of people experiencing homelessness and understand that through story you can breakdown stereotypes presented in the media.
In an ever-changing world, the ability to understand and appreciate the stories of ourselves and others is more important than ever. By integrating storytelling into education, we not only enhance learning but also build a more empathetic, connected, and resilient society. As educators, parents, and community members, it is our responsibility to nurture this human skill and ensure that every story has a place in our collective narrative.
- This year we will be praying for families in our community and their needs: Briskie, Brown, Buckley, Buhner, Bunce, Bunt
- For families in our school and community in need of support, prayer & encouragement
- For the gift of volunteers and their contribution to our community
- For all the staff and students preparing for the Brisbane Kokoda Challenge
