Mothers' Union calls for prayers for election candidates' families

The Mothers' Union is calling on its thousands of members up and down the country to pray that the families of election candidates "will not be affected by criticism or physical threats".

The organisation, which has 140 years experience of working with families, says in its pre-election advice that people should also "thank God" that anyone is actually willing to stand for public office. "Pray for energy and stamina for the candidates as they campaign," the union adds.

It urges people to take seriously their involvement in the coming general election, and even consider organising hustings.

Other things they should pray for include "positive not negative campaigning" and "true and honest manifestos" as well as mutual respect between the parties.

The union is also calling for an increase in paternity leave and for new policies to prevent violence against women and girls.

And it urges prayers for the winners as well as the losers.

"Pray for the candidates who will ultimately be successful. Pray that they will serve with energy, enthusiasm and eagerness to represent their constituents," the advice says. "Pray for peace for the candidates who will not be successful, particularly in the days after the result is announced."

The Anglican and Catholic churches have already published their election documents. The Methodist Church's is the least "political" of the three.

News
King Charles attends Royal Maundy service in Wales
King Charles attends Royal Maundy service in Wales

Hundreds of people gathered at St Asaph Cathedral on Thursday for the annual Royal Maundy service, held in Wales for only the second time in the service's 800-year history.

Welsh church to hear full bell ring for first time at Easter service
Welsh church to hear full bell ring for first time at Easter service

Over 150 years since a north Wales church was built with plans for a full ring of bells, the sound long intended for its tower is finally set to be heard at an Easter service.

'Gordon Brown: Power with Purpose', by James Macintyre
'Gordon Brown: Power with Purpose', by James Macintyre

'Gordon Brown: Power with Purpose' is beautifully written, with an unusually nuanced approach to political matters.

MPs reminded of impact of Christian faith in politics with book gift
MPs reminded of impact of Christian faith in politics with book gift

Alastair Campbell famously declared "We don't do God."