ceremonial and burial sites are being destroyed by rising sea levels. Our livelihoods are also being significantly affected, which is very distressing for my people. We believe that God is leading the Church to a turning point in its history and that the full partnership of Indigenous peoples internationally is essential if we are to leave a lasting legacy for all of our children and grandchildren. This turning point includes how we address damage to the climate. Indigenous peoples know how to care for the boeradhar (land), malu (sea) and dapar (sky) – we have been doing so for millennia, as intended by the Creator. This Lenten season, let us repent for the ways in which we have failed to live in right relationship with God and God’s good Creation. May we seek to honour God more completely by respecting what God has made from abundant and enduring love by sharing what we have and protecting the God-given sacred balance in Creation. Creator God, show us the honourable way – the way of the most Holy Trinity – of living in right relationship with you and all that you have created. As we embrace what the rest of this day has to offer, please soften our hearts and sharpen our senses to the beauty of what you have made and help us to respect and nurture the sacred balance of all that is yours, that which you generously share with us. May we seek to learn from the ancient wisdom and ways of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. With our voices and hearts, we glorify you, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen. 74
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI3ODI1