National Week of Prayer for UK launches with events across the nation

 (Photo: Unsplash)

Over a hundred events will be taking place throughout the week as Christians join together for the first National Week of Prayer for the UK and beyond. 

It has been organised in just a few months with the backing of a number of organisations, including the Evangelical Alliance, Open Doors, 24-7 Prayer and London City Mission. 

Over a thousand Christians, networks and groups have signed up to pray for the UK, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, from 12 to 20 October. 

Events will be taking place in churches, community centres, beaches, castle grounds, parks and other locations. 

There will also be online prayer watches, livestreamed midday prayers, and night vigils to allow people to participate virtually. 

The flagship event of the week is an in-person prayer gathering at the Emmanuel Centre in Westminster on 16 October. 

Prayers throughout the week will be focused on spheres of influence like government, healthcare, education and business. 

"This coordination and firepower has been a miraculous movement led by the Holy Spirit," said organisers.

"We continue to receive multiple testimonies of others who have been called to pray at the same time, even receiving inspired worship songs from around the nation, all with similar themes.

"The oneness and unity of the Body has been inspiring as all have been willing to lay down brands, logos and agenda and join hands under the banner of the National Week of prayer humbling ourselves to corporately pray and ask the Lord to heal our land." 

News
US criticises prosecution of pro-life campaigner over silent prayer near abortion clinic
US criticises prosecution of pro-life campaigner over silent prayer near abortion clinic

The US State Department has said it is closely monitoring the prosecution of a Christian woman who prayed silently in an abortion clinic buffer zone. 

Over £900,000 awarded to help UK churches stay open amid growing funding pressures
Over £900,000 awarded to help UK churches stay open amid growing funding pressures

Hundreds of churches across the UK are receiving vital financial support to remain open and safe, as rising repair costs and shrinking funding streams place historic buildings under increasing strain.

How to make the most of the quiet period between Christmas and New Year
How to make the most of the quiet period between Christmas and New Year

Make the most of these last days of the year to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with God.

US carries out strikes on Islamic State in Nigeria over violence against Christians
US carries out strikes on Islamic State in Nigeria over violence against Christians

The US military has conducted airstrikes against Islamic State (IS) militants in Nigeria over the violent "targeting" of Christians.