Anglican Social Responsibilities

Today is National Sorry Day. This day commemorates the anniversary of the First Sorry Day in 1998, following the ‘Bringing Them Home’ Report, and acknowledges the great injustice and ongoing pain experienced by the stolen generations.

The theme or call of Sorry Day 2026 is 'From Sorry to Action". A reminder that words, on their own, are not enough.

Today especially, we pray this prayer written by the Aboriginal and Islander Commission National Council of Churches in Australia 2002.

"Almighty and loving God, you who created ALL people in your image, lead us to seek your compassion as we listen to the stories of our past. You gave your only Son, Jesus, who died and rose again so that sins will be forgiven.

"We place before you the pain and anguish of dispossession of land, language, lore, culture and family kinship that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have experienced. We live in faith that all people will rise from the depths of despair and hopelessness. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families have endured the pain and loss of loved ones, through the separation of children from their families.

"We are sorry and ask God’s forgiveness.

"Touch the hearts of the broken, homeless and inflicted and heal their spirits. In your mercy and compassion walk with us as we continue our journey of healing to create a future that is just and equitable.

"Lord, you are our hope. Amen"

You can read more about the Diocese of Perth’s recently launched Reconcilitation Action Plan here: https://www.perth.anglican.org/rap

Prayers for Peace at St George's Cathedral, Perth — March 29, 2026

The Gospel conclusion — Bishop Hans

Reading: Luke 10:36–37
“Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?”

He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

Bishop Hans brought the Gospel to its conclusion with this final exchange — drawing us back to the question at the heart of the gathering, Who Is My Neighbour?

His reflection called us beyond reflection alone, and into action — a reminder that the call of the Gospel is not simply to understand, but to show up, to act, and to live it out.

“Go and do likewise.”