A Prayer for Healing Country features the artwork, ‘Tree of Life’ by Safina Stewart, Common Grace’s National School Partnership Coordinator. The Prayer is written by Aunty Dr Doseena Fergie and brings three generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people together - Aunty Doseena, her daughter Safina, and Safina’s eldest daughter Arieta, set to a moving soundtrack by Stu Fergie of Oka Music, Aunty Doseena’s son.
We are asking churches and faith communities to play this video in your service during NAIDOC Week (Sunday the 4th and/or Sunday 11th July 2021), and are calling individuals and small groups to watch and pray this prayer, recognising that Jesus is our ultimate hope for healing.
God of Mercy and Grace –
in your quest to bring about justice. You understand what it is like to persevere in an unjust society when you suffered and died on the Cross Have mercy on us.
This Land weeps in sorrow. It is filled with sadness and grief because of the atrocities of the past and present. Have mercy on us.
We yearn for conciliation and peace in this place. To yarn and listen deeply to each other with Care and Compassion.
God of Truth –
You are pure and true – we worship you for who you are. There is no one like you – for you shine in the darkness.
Enable all the peoples of this Country to desire, listen and understand the True History of this Land. For only then can we walk this journey together.
Jesus, you are the tree life. Help us to be your instruments of Truth, by the Power of your Holy Spirit.
We pray for discernment and wisdom to impart your Truth.Deliver us from devastation and bring about Healing to Country and our communities.”
Our Healer –
May all Creation, the birds, animals, fish, trees, plants, rocks, mountains, waters, and peoples be healed to flourishing.
Strengthen us, lead us, inspire us into action, ignited by our faith in you Lord Jesus.Help us not to lose Hope.
For it is only through justice, forgiveness and Love can there be Healing and Peace.
Amen.
'Tree of Life' by Safina Stewart
Safina has written a reflection sharing the story behind her painting 'Tree of Life'. Read it here
Title: Tree of Life
Artist: Safina Stewart
Country: Wuthathi Country and Mabuiag Island
Date: 2021
Art type: Acrylic Paint on Canvas
Website: www.artbysafina.com.au
This painting emphasises Jesus as the tree of life with leaves for the healing of the nations. It is a deep invitation by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Christian leader, Safina Stewart, to participate in reconciliation and healing by being truth tellers and seeking justice.
Revelation 22:2 “And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.”
Gum Tree & Cross - Jesus as the Tree of Life, who brings truth, healing and life
Gum leaves: for healing, welcome, and new beginnings
Campfires: represent all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nations and all nations from around the globe
Water: symbolises the River of Life
Artwork not to be copied or used without permission.
This page is part of Common Grace's Treaty and Truth Telling for Healing Country campaign