Australia’s Drought Prayer Campaign

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference has extended the November national prayer campaign for drought, deciding it should run indefinitely, as historically dry conditions continue to affect most parts of eastern Australia.

“The Church across Australia – lay people, religious, priests and bishops alike – needs to stand in solidarity with those suffering most acutely, offering prayers and practical support to those in most need.”

This special prayer has been written for all to pray daily:

Eternal God
In wisdom and love
you created our Earth
to sustain us and give us life.

We turn to you now
in faith, hope and love,
asking you to look with favour
on our drought-stricken land,
on our starving animals.
on our failing crops.

Strengthen, sustain and give new heart
to our farmers
and to all who are affected by drought;
be with those who support them.
In your loving providence,
send abundant rain
and restore our parched Earth.

Father of all compassion,
hear our prayer
through Jesus Christ your Son,
in whom the promise of new life
has dawned, and
through the power
of the Holy Spirit,
the Lord, the giver of life:
Renew your faithful people;
Renew the face of the Earth.

Our Lady of the Southern Cross,
Mary, help of Christians –
Pray for us.
St Mary of the Cross Mckillop –
Pray for us.

Download a copy of the prayer here