Alfred Deakin, born in Melbourne in 1856, was a pivotal figure in the formation of modern Australia. From a young age, his mother instilled in him a strong foundation of faith. Though he briefly strayed into spiritualism during his youth, by 1896, Deakin had returned to a deep Christian faith, writing, “A life, the life of Christ, that is the one thing that is needed, the only revelation required is there… we have but to live it.”

Deakin’s faith profoundly influenced his public life, particularly during his work in drafting the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution. He prayed continually over the proposed constitution and rejoiced when the Constitutional Convention unanimously agreed to include a preamble acknowledging God: “Humbly relying on the blessing of Almighty God.” In his book The Federal Story, Deakin described the federation process and the constitution as “providential,” attributing their success to “a series of miracles.”

Appointed as Australia’s first Attorney General, Deakin founded the High Court of Australia, and as the nation’s second Prime Minister, he served three terms, shaping much of its early legislation. His vision for the new nation extended to selecting Canberra as the federal capital and founding the Australian Navy. Throughout these monumental tasks, Deakin’s reliance on prayer and faith was unwavering.

Deakin kept a Spiritual Diary from 1884 to 1913, in which he penned nearly 400 prayers, later compiled in Boke of Praer and Praes. These prayers reflect his dependence on God in every decision. The day after the redrafted constitution was approved by the people, he wrote:

“Father of Nations, receive our psalms of thanksgiving. Enable us to pursue the cause of unity in spite of the obstacles which at present appear to beset our path elsewhere. God preserve this people and grant its leaders unselfish fidelity and courage to face all trials for the sake of brotherhood. Thy blessing has rested upon us here and we pray that it may be the means of creating and fostering throughout all Australia a Christlike citizenship.”

During the arduous journey to secure federation, Deakin’s prayers were a source of strength and guidance. One such prayer captures his dedication:

“Guide my judgement so that I may discern the path in which I can be of the best service to my kind and fulfill Thy Will… I wish to choose the best - not from my own point of view nor even that of my family, but from that of All-Seeing-All-Loving and All-outstanding … God bless my country and my race and all that live and grant that I may trust Thy Will and live so as to serve their best needs to my best ability.”

Walter Murdoch, Deakin’s biographer and great-uncle to Rupert Murdoch, offered profound insight into Deakin’s character. In Alfred Deakin: A Sketch (1923), he wrote:

“He left behind him two little books of prayers, through which if they were made public, those capable of reading them with sympathy could gain a glimpse of his innermost spirit… his religion was the deepest thing in him… and that to ignore this is to miss the essential secret of his life. These prayers were written in the days of his strength, but the central faith that speaks in them did not fail him.”

Alfred Deakin’s legacy is not only found in the political and legal structures he helped establish but also in his deep faith and reliance on prayer, which guided him through every challenge. His vision for Australia, rooted in unity, service, and Christlike citizenship, continues to inspire. His innermost spirit, as captured in his prayers, reveals a man whose life and leadership were deeply anchored in his faith.