Australian Speaker of the House Harry Jenkins wants to hear from citizens if they are still in favor of the Lord's Prayer being recited before the session of the Parliament.

The result of a public debate called by Jenkins will determine if the Christian prayer, a tradition inherited from Australia's British roots, will continue to be said or be junked in favor of an acknowledgement of the country's aboriginal ancestors.

Jenkins said since he assumed office in February he has received a number of suggestions from MPs and constituents proposing the setting aside of the Lord's Prayer because it may no longer be relevant as Australian society increasing becomes secular.

Among those not in favor of his proposal is Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Christian groups. A spokeswoman for Rudd said, "The Lord's Prayer is a long-standing tradition of the Australian parliament and the prime minister believes it should continue."

Opposition Leader Malcolm Turnbull and Nationals Leader Warren Truss also issued a joint statement favoring the retention of the Pater Noster because "it provides a non-partisan reaffirmation of our commitment to the common good for the people of Australia."

On Jenkin's side is Australian Greens Leader Bob Brown who prefers a time of reflection in lieu of reciting the Lord's Prayer.

Up to 65 percent of Australians still consider themselves Christians, while among the Parliament's 226 MPs, there are no Muslims or Aborigines.