With the creation of The Very Useful Prayer Book, the school aims to raise funds to support Brisbane’s most vulnerable through donations to Emmanuel City Mission.
St Stephen’s School Captain Marina said prayer enabled a connection and friendship with God.
“Prayer also reminds us that God wants a friendship with us and for us to understand more about that friendship,” she said.
“We hope that The Very Useful Prayer Book can support your friendship with God too.”
Rooted in the timeless wisdom of the saints and scholars in Catholic Tradition, The Very Useful Prayer Book invites readers to explore the multifaceted dimensions of prayer. Student reflections on prayers and student examples of prayer are also in the book.
From the quiet simplicity of gratitude to the profound connection of communal worship, the book provides an accessible way for individuals, families, and students to bring prayer into their daily lives.
Emmanuel City Mission Director and 2025 Australian of the Year Nominee, Roby Curtis said he was grateful to the St Stephen’s community for their commitment to servicing the community.
“Efforts like The Very Useful Prayer Book empower us to feed, clothe, and support the vulnerable in our city, embodying faith in action,” he said.
"Inspired by the fire of the Holy Spirit, we believe that acts of faith inspire even greater generosity within and across communities.”
St Stephen’s Assistant Principal Religious Education Kathleen Jenkins, who also co-authored the book, said the Very Useful Prayerbook aligned with the Brisbane Catholic Education Religious Education Curriculum, providing teachers, students, and families with a structured yet adaptable approach to prayer.
“Whether it’s on a classroom prayer table or in the heart of a family home, this book is ready to support all who seek a deeper spiritual connection,” she said.
“It is also aptly timed in 2024 - the year that Pope Francis designated the Year of Prayer in anticipation of the 2025 Jubilee Year.
“The Very Useful Prayer Book was an intentional response to this call. We hope this book becomes a companion that deepens or reignites prayer journeys by reconnecting its readers with the foundations of Christian prayer.”
Kathleen co-authored the book with fellow Assistant Principal Religious Education Luke Thomsen.