Methodist Church appeals for donations to support communities after riots

The Methodist Church has launched an appeal for donations to go towards communities that have suffered as a result of the civil disorder.

The funds will be used to support the Church’s work in the areas of reconciliation and community rebuilding.

Methodist President the Rev Leo Osborn said that the worldwide Methodist family was offering its prayers for all those who have suffered distress and loss in recent days.

They include the many people who saw their homes and livelihoods go up in smoke as yobs as young as 10-years-old rampaged through the streets of English cities.

Speaking from South Africa, where he is currently taking part in the World Methodist Council meeting, Mr Osborn said: “Whilst it is impossible to know at this distance the details of all that has taken place, we do pray that God will strengthen the hand of those working for reconciliation and peace with justice and, not least, those of the Methodist community.”

The Church has issued prayers asking that God heal Britain’s “broken communities”, restore neighbourhoods and rekindle hope.

The prayers have been written by the Rev Mark Wakelin and read:

Loving God, you call us into community, and we only become truly ourselves as we are for others.

Forgive us for our brokenness and heal the hurts of communities damaged in the recent troubles in our cities in the United Kingdom.

Help us to restore the harm to neighbourhoods, buildings and relationships and to rekindle hope where fires of anger and disappointment raged.

Give to the Church in areas of trouble the courage and creativity to be there for others, and to be part of your gracious work of restoration and recovery.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, who is our peace and who keeps breaking down the barriers that divide us from each other. Amen

Lord God, we pray for an end to the violence, looting and riots that have brought fear, terror and destruction to local neighbourhoods across London and other UK citities.

We pray that the underlying reasons for the riots can be quickly, fairly and properly addressed and that the Government, the police and local communities will work together to rebuild trust and security.

We pray in faith, trusting in our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen



To donate to the Methodist Church's appeal, visit www.justgiving.com/mcfhomemission/donate/