‘Reality check’ - the EU referendum
The media are quoting our politicians as they blitz the public with claims and counterclaims of why we should vote this way or that way in the EU referendum. The British public are fairly evenly split, according to the latest opinion polls. Many of the debates have been borderline self-justification by individuals rather than practical, honest arguments. We can pray for those on both sides of the debate to improve dramatically the quality of their discussions, resist the temptation to exaggerate statistics, and give strong factual arguments, not suppositions, to back up their advice. We can also ask God to help the nation to be led by the Holy Spirit to discern the difference between career-driven political views and opinions based on solid research and facts. The BBC has provided an easy to understand guide to the referendum debate and honest answers to some questions. This can be found by clicking the ‘More’ link.
Hillsborough - truth revealed, now for justice
Churches on Merseyside have been holding vigils for the football tragedy at Hillsborough for 27 years. This week a report exonerated the fans: now justice is needed. The following prayer is from the Baptist Times: ‘God of justice and peace, help us to hold fast to the dignity restored through the Hillsborough report. Truth, unwrapped from deception, has paved the way for justice and peace to be found. Give us grace to walk on with dignity, and help us to live lives that bear testimony to our true character that has now been acknowledged. Grant diligence and courage to those who must now take forward the cause of justice, and patience to those who long for its coming. Bless this ongoing and noble pursuit, and thwart any plan to stand in its way. Bless the waiting and the hopes of the families, survivors, supporters and all who feel the pain of these events. Bless those whose endeavours may indeed bear the fruit of justice. Bless our city and those throughout the world who suffer injustice.’
Government avoids defeat over child refugees
On Monday the Government crushed a cross-party amendment, tabled by Lord Alf Dubs, to the immigration bill that would have seen the UK accept 3,000 child refugees from Europe. The Government recently announced that it would take in an extra 3,000 child refugees from the Middle East over the next four years, but not those from Europe, saying such a policy would encourage more. The Christian charity Home for Good said, ‘We are very disappointed that Parliament voted against the amendment that would have allowed 3,000 unaccompanied refugee children currently in Europe to be brought into the UK. This crisis has not gone away, and there are still many children in need of loving homes. Last year 3,000 children arrived unaccompanied into the UK and claimed asylum. These children desperately need homes and people to care for them.’ See also:
Wave of prayer from 8 to 15 May
Last month we reported that the Archbishops of Canterbury and York are inviting churches to pray for the evangelisation of the nation during the week leading up to Pentecost Sunday. They called on every serving parish priest to participate in a great wave of prayer across our land from 8 to 15 May. The World Prayer Centre now reports, ‘There are very encouraging stories about how many individuals, churches and cathedrals are planning to respond to the archbishops’ call for prayer.’ Partners in this prayer initiative include 24-7 Prayer, HOPE, the World Prayer Centre, the Neighbourhood Prayer Network, and the National Day of Prayer and Worship. Let us pray for a real release of a spirit of prayer and mission to flow across our lands. See all resources at
