Archbishop praying for Rishi Sunak as he becomes Britain's next prime minister

Rishi Sunak delivering his first speech after winning the leadership contest to become next prime minister. (Photo: BBC News)

The Archbishop of Canterbury has invited people to join him in praying for Rishi Sunak after he was confirmed today as Britain's next prime minister.

Sunak is Britain's first Hindu and Asian heritage prime minister. 

He clinched the top job after seeing off rivals Penny Mordaunt and the former prime minister Boris Johnson.

In an address to the nation after winning the leadership contest, Sunak said his first priority was unifying the Conservative party and the country at a time of "profound economic challenge". 

He promised to serve "with integrity and humility".

"But there is no doubt we face a profound economic challenge. We now need stability and unity. And I will make it my utmost priority to bring our party and our country together," he said.

"Because that is the only way we will overcome the challenges we face and build a better, more prosperous future for our children and our grandchildren.

"I pledge that I will serve you with integrity and humility, and I will work day in, day out, to deliver for the British people." 

Archbishop Justin Welby said he was praying for Sunak and the healing of political divisions.

"At a time of great difficulty and uncertainty for this country, please join me in praying for Rishi Sunak as he takes on the responsibilities of leadership," said the Archbishop.

"May he, and all leaders of all parties, work across divides to bring unity and offer stability for those who need it most."

Sunak succeeds Liz Truss who quit after just six weeks in the job after a disastrous mini-budget that sparked a market meltdown and calls for her resignation. 

News
The first Christmas song to be sung in churches
The first Christmas song to be sung in churches

Every Christmas, people sing the song “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night”. Unlike many other songs and carols that include elements of non-biblical tradition and myth, this song is pure Scripture. It was the first Christmas song authorised to be sung in the Church of England. This is the story …

The story of the Christmas Truce of 1914
The story of the Christmas Truce of 1914

On Christmas Eve in 1914, many men were in the trenches fighting the war, but the spirit of Christmas halted the conflict for a brief period. This is the story …

Report highlights injustices experienced by Christians in the Holy Land
Report highlights injustices experienced by Christians in the Holy Land

Jerusalem Church leaders have released a report detailing the struggles and challenges currently faced be Christians living in the Holy Land.

Have you lost the wonder of Christmas?
Have you lost the wonder of Christmas?

For you who have been followers of Jesus Christ for a long time, maybe the pain and suffering of this world and the darkness you have had to live through this past year has gotten you down to the point of complete and utter discouragement. But all is not lost.