Why the Lord’s Prayer Still Matters

Cáit Folan-Sfakianakis has submitted a petition to the Western Australian Parliament requesting that the Lord’s Prayer continue to open parliamentary proceedings.

The petition follows a tradition in the Westminster system where Christian prayer has opened sittings since 1558. In Western Australia, the Legislative Council maintained this practice from Federation, and the Legislative Assembly adopted the Lord’s Prayer by resolution in 1928. Both chambers have used the prayer to begin sessions since that time.

The Record reports that the petition represents an effort by people of faith in Western Australia to ensure the prayer remains a part of the legislative process. Supporters of the petition suggest the prayer serves as an act of humility and a reminder that elected officials are accountable to a higher authority while exercising public power.