Environmental prayer request for Ploughing Championships

People of all ages and faiths are being asked to choose their favourite traditional prayer and to compose a prayer of their own for the protection of the environment.

Bishop Denis Nulty of Kildare and Leighlin issued his appeal in the run-up to the September 17-19 National Ploughing Championships at Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow, which is in his diocese.

Noting that over 85% of respondents in the recent census stated they had a religious affiliation, he said prayer is still important for many citizens.

He said he was asking people to choose the prayer they like most, such as the Rosary or the Lord’s Prayer or perhaps a prayer learnt at their mother’s knee or handed down in their family.

Bishop Nulty said he was also inviting people to submit a personal self-composed prayer of no more than 100 words about the environment.

It could relate to farming, gardening or sustainability. The winner will receive a €100 voucher.

People can submit their preferences and entries to prayerattheploughing@ kandle.ie between now and September 10.