The Voice Referendum:
National Weekend of Prayer,
Meditation and Reflection
National Weekend of Prayer, Meditation and Reflection
8-10 September 2023
As Australians prepare to vote on Saturday 14 October 2023, Christian and other faith communities across Australia are coming together for a weekend of prayer, reflection and meditation for unity, hope and respect in the lead-up to the Voice Referendum. A range of events are being organised in major capital cities and congregations from across Australia are invited to register their interest in participating in this historic collaboration.
Sign up via Eventbrite if you would like to participate in this national event. Further information will be forwarded to participants upon registration.
The National Council of Churches in Australia has provided some ideas for communities who wish to participate in the event. There is also further information about the multi-faith alliance which includes the Anglican Church of Australia came together to sign a Joint Resolution that called on a bipartisan action to hold a Referendum on a First Nations Voice.
Prayer service resources
Chairperson of NATSIAC, The Revd Canon Glenn Loughrey has provided some resources which may be useful.
Statement of the Heart prayer service
This service which has been approved for use in the Diocese of Melbourne is designed to be most effective done in a circle with the words Voice, Treaty, Truth, and Makarrata on the floor in a circle as well. The readings for Sunday 10th September are Matthew 18:10-20, Romans 13:1-10, Psalm 148, Exodus 12:1-14. These are challenging readings but with care can be a way into the whole story about our history and how a Voice can lead us forward into the Promised land where all are treated equally.
Video resources
- YouTube playlist that has a video of the Statement being read.
Statement From The Heart - YouTube - A musical video written by Peter Branderjon & Michelle McDonald.
Beneath The Southern Cross - YouTube