On Wednesday, 1 September, Queensland faith leaders met in the Upper House Chamber, Queensland Parliament House, to pray for the state’s leaders and citizens.
Queensland-Parliament-Multi-faith-Prayer-Service,-David-Lakisa,-Brisbane-Centenary-Stake,-
David Lakisa speaks at the Queensland Parliament Muilti-faith Prayer Service2021 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.David Lakisa, a lay leader from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said, “The multi-faith prayer service was an uplifting experience. As community members and worshippers of Jesus Christ in Queensland, it was great to see and feel so much unity amongst diversity.”
The Hon. John Mickel, former Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland, welcomed attendees to the annual service, which was hosted by the Queensland Former Parliamentary Members’ Association and the Queensland Faith Communities Council (QFCC).
Faith leaders shared thoughtful prayers pleading for gifts of wisdom, knowledge, and strength to lead the state and nation with compassion, mindfulness, and discernment in these difficult times.
Gail Paratz, Chair of QFCC, shared the council's vision statement, "We are a Queensland network of faith communities committed to advancing interfaith understanding and collaboration and to making a positive contribution within the broader community."
Mr Glen Elmes, president of the Queensland Former Parliamentary Members’ Association, said, “In Brisbane there are over 200 cultures, 220 languages spoken and 100 different religions. We can be inclusive, and we can be understanding. Multiculturalism is a good thing.”
“It was wonderful to see so many different faith groups coming together to pray for our government leaders,” said Margaret Nayton, Secretary of the QFCC.
“Of course,” she added, “another important aspect of the event was that we all had the opportunity of spending time together and building relationships across faiths. This is vital if we are to grow a stronger and more peaceful society in Queensland.”
“I love the spirit of unity, respect and friendship that we have one for another,” said Evelyn Ray, Latter-day Saint communication director and executive member of QFCC, from Ipswich. “May we continually be blessed as we work together to promote peace, unity and understanding.”