Loving God,

As we begin this new school term in the light of Easter,
we give thanks for the life and leadership of Pope Francis.
You called him to serve with a heart full of mercy,
a voice for the voiceless,
and hands that reached out in love to all your people.

We remember his deep compassion,
his care for the poor and the planet,
and his constant call to walk in the footsteps of Jesus
with humility, courage and joy.

In this Easter season, we are reminded that death is not the end,
but a doorway to new life.
May Pope Francis now rest in your eternal peace,
and may his legacy continue to inspire us
to live with grateful hearts,
to act justly, love tenderly,
and walk humbly with you, our God.

As we begin Term 2, help us to carry forward his message
in our learning, in our relationships,
and in the way we care for one another and our world.

We ask this through Christ our risen Lord.

Amen.