A call to prayer for the nation

The Archbishops of Canterbury and York would like to offer an invitation to every Christian and person of good will to pray at 6pm every day, beginning today, Thursday 5th November for the period of this present lock-down.

Where it is possible, churches will be ringing a single bell at 6pm.

The Archbishops are calling upon the Church of England to make this month of lockdown a month of prayer, saying:

“More than anything else, whatever the nation thinks, we know that we are in the faithful hands of the risen Christ who knows our weaknesses, tiredness and struggles and whose steadfast love endures for ever.

During the first lockdown we cheered for the NHS every Thursday. During this second lockdown we invite you pray for our nation every Thursday, for its leaders, its health and essential services and all those who suffer.”

Adding his own words, the Bishop of Southwell & Nottingham, Bishop Paul said:

“Now is the time for us to increase our prayer for the nation as we renew our confidence in God who is with us through every storm. Please do join in this focused month of prayer and especially to pause each day at 6pm to pray.

We pray alongside the many other ways we are seeking to serve the purposes of God and care for the most needy in these difficult times..”

The Church of England has published resources to support us all in prayer for each day of the lockdown. Please visit Prayers for the Nation to find your prayer booklet.

Visit the Church of England website for more information.

The full text of the Archbishops’ letter is reproduced below.