Religious Congregations across Australia will spend one hour in prayer on Sunday 18 October 2026 to mark the National Day of Sorrow and Promise, an annual observance prepared by Catholic Religious Australia (CRA) to acknowledge the profound harm caused by abuse and reaffirm the importance of safeguarding.
Established in 2018, the CRA National Day of Sorrow and Promise invites Religious and their associates to gather in their local communities to reflect on the past failures of Religious Institutes, remember those who have suffered as a result of abuse, and renew their commitment to better protect and nurture all children and vulnerable adults in their care.
“Through symbol, music, prayer and reflection, Religious across the nation will join in solidarity to hold victims and survivors of sexual abuse in their hearts. Listening with deep humility to survivors’ stories is also an integral component of the National Day of Sorrow and Promise,” said Anne Walker, CRA’s National Executive Director.
This year’s theme, drawn from the well-loved psalm ‘The Lord is my Shepherd,’ gently reassures the human heart that amid darkness, fear and uncertainty, our Lord God is always with us.
CRA President Kari Hatherell OSU observed: “While the prayer service draws us into the tragic reality of abuse and the immense pain of victims, survivors and their loved ones, at the same time, it reminds us of our ever-present God, walking with us through the darkest valley, bringing strength, healing, and hope.”
“It is in this spirit that Religious are invited to renew their commitment to ensure that our cultures, policies and structures are grounded in the gospel, upholding the dignity of all whom we encounter,” Kari concluded.
The prayer resource for the 2026 National Day of Sorrow and Promise is accessible at CRA’s website and can be freely downloaded for use in church circles.
Download the Media Release here.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES: Anne Walker | M: 0409 936 711 | E: nationalexec@catholicreligious.org.au