At the Closing Ceremony of the Parliament of the World’s Religions an outstanding prayer was made by the Archbishop of Melbourne, Philip Freier. It is a great example of a Christian prayer being offered with integrity in a multifaith garthering. I have Archbishop Philip’s permission to share it with you, the opening being from Jesus Christ’s Sermon on the Mount recorded by Saint Matthew in his account of Jesus’ life in chapter 5 and verses 3 to 12, New Revised Standard Version of the Bible,
Hear the words of Jesus when he spoke about blessedness:
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
O LORD our heavenly Father, high and mighty, King of kings, Lord of lords, the only ruler of princes, who beholds all the dwellers of earth from your heavenly throne, look with mercy on all who seek truth that they may find it in you who has revealed yourself as one God in three persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Grant to us all such a measure of your love and the spirit of compassion that makes for understanding that we might work together to face the challenges of our age, guard us that we neither fall into sin or despair but give us the courage that can meet the challenges of our times in hope, faith and trust.
Go with us Lord in all our doings with your most gracious favour, and further our search for peace and justice in your world.
I pray this in Jesus’ name
Amen
For more info see Parliament of the World’s Religions – Day 7 and the Closing Ceremony of the Parliament.
