Christian Unity and Dialogue
Brexit: Churches call for days of prayer
Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI) has issued a request that all its member Churches and associated bodies join together, at the beginning of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, in a time of dedicated prayer for the national political situation in the United Kingdom. We believe that this is a time that requires particular prayers for discernment and wisdom, as well as a time for deep listening to God’s call to live together in peace and justice.
CTBI especially asks that Churches, and everyone of faith, join together over the coming week, in praying for our politicians and political institutions.
The Moderator of CTBI, Archbishop Angaelos, Coptic Archbishop of London, said: “This is a time at which many feel anger and anxiety over the future, and so we need to pray that those who have the heavy burden of political leadership in our country find a unity that brings our communities together in the task of serving the common good. We hope and pray that every person of faith will join us in prayer across our nation, and beyond.”
CTBI General Secretary Bob Fyffe added that resources are being produced to serve the Churches in this task. He also welcomed the supportive comments of Church leaders across Britain and Ireland.
The Archbishop of Canterbury and the Archbishop of York said: “We echo the call of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland to Christians and all those of faith and goodwill to give time for prayer beginning this Sunday in their local churches or as they choose: praying for wisdom, courage, integrity and compassion for our political leaders and all MPs; for reconciliation; and for fresh and uniting vision for all in our country.”
The words of both Archbishops were endorsed by the Rt Rev Susan Brown, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, along with the Most Revd John Davies, Archbishop of Wales.
The Revd Brian Anderson, President of the Irish Council of Churches, said: “As we come together in prayer at this time of uncertainty we are mindful of the importance of protecting relationships in the interest of the common good. We particularly want to encourage public representatives, and all others who give leadership in our society, to weigh their words carefully, to respect the integrity of those who conscientiously differ from them and to speak with grace.”
Patrick Coyle, Moderator of Cytûn (Churches Together in Wales), also welcomed the initiative, saying: “This is a critical time in our history when the need to put all our effort, physical and spiritual into supporting our political leaders in their crucial work of building strong communities. I welcome this important call to prayer.”