The celebration of Australia Day this week is an opportunity to thank the Lord for the many blessings He has bestowed upon our country. It is also the occasion to pray for our nation. In this period of rapid social change we pray that the Light of Christ may continue to serve as a beacon in our nation. St Paul encouraged disciples to pray for one’s country when he wrote: “I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way” (1 Tim 2:1) God bless Australia. Fr Nicolas Maurice