E te Atua, kaihomai i te ora
In every age you have inspired some to be leaders, innovators, groundbreakers.
As we begin our hui today, we remember Catherine McAuley,
And the courageous bold women who first brought her vision and legacy to Aotearoa.
As we recall our Mercy tūpuna, who came here with large hearts and few resources,
Always ready to divide in order to share, we ask that you empower us in our turn,
Not to do what they did then, but to act as they would if they were here now.
May that same spirit of Mercy be at work as we meet here today,
Enabling us to read the signs of our times and listen deeply,
So that your wisdom can take root in our imagination and our hearts,
As we walk forward into tomorrow’s mission, led by your light.
Āmene
Adapted from Inoi Taketake: Prayers for Stepping Forward by Ngā Whāea o Aotearoa Tiaki Manatū