The Biblical accounts of creation put human beings and all other living things into relationship with each other as created by God, though humans are given “dominion” over the other animals. We have not always exercised that dominion with proper respect and care for the animals, or with proper awareness of our interdependence with the animals and the ecosystems that sustain their lives and ours. Wildlife programmes on TV have shown us just how great is the diversity of the animal kingdom on this planet. We also understand better how animals are harmed indirectly when we diminish their habitat through land clearance and when ecosystems are damaged by pollution.
Biblical references: Genesis 1 and 2; Proverbs 12.10; Job 39, 40
Thank you, God,
for birds and animals, fish and insects,
things that slither, glide and scuttle,
in all their wonderful diversity.
Thank you for the working animals who share our load,
the livestock who help to feed us,
and the pets who keep us company.
Thank you for the wildlife
of rivers, lakes and oceans,
of desert, bush and rainforest.
Show us how to care for their habitat,
and teach us to treat all your creatures kindly,
for you have made them all. Amen.
© The Anglican Church of Australia
This text may be reproduced for use in worship in the Anglican Church of Australia