'We care,' London's churches tell capital's disaffected

The motto for Millwall football club in south London is, "Everybody hates us. We don't care". But London's churches are hitting back with a new message: "We care".

This Pentecost Sunday, 11 May, Millwall football stadium will take centre stage in south London as an expected 30,000 Christians come together on the Global Day of Prayer London to pray for the capital, the nation and the world.

In a deprived area of London with high gun and knife crime people who believe in a God of hope will pray for transformation and regeneration of their society - at every level.

Pastor Phil Stokes, Chair of Southwark for Jesus, who sponsor Street Pastors and other youth projects, says that prayer will put some real care back into a community who need to know that they matter.

He represents just one of the many prayer initiatives taking part in the Global Day of Prayer London and his vision is summarised in the strapline, "Unity in Prayer and Action".

"We know that prayer works. We have been witness to many wonderful transformations in Southwark. We continue to pray and work towards change in local housing and government and encourage absolutely everything that enhances community transformation," he said.

"Ours is a relational approach amongst leaders holding genuine respect for one another.

"In recognising the various needs of the community and the many gifts of the church, we are trying together to do what God intends - whether feeding the poor, running ethical businesses, challenging unrighteous legislation or preaching the gospel," explains Stokes.

Last October, the Home Office and British Crime survey released statistics showing an overall reduction in crime. It dropped by 7 per cent, including violent crime, firearms, car theft and sex offences. Sir Ian Blair was quoted as saying last September "we are seeing a fast decline in crime - faster than the Met has ever seen before".

The Global Day of Prayer London is also supported by the four Presidents of Churches Together in England and prominent church leaders from every denomination.

Tickets for the event can be bought online at www.gdoplondon.com