General Election - Bishop James and Bishop Simon share a message

First published on: 6th November 2019

As Parliament is dissolved ahead of the General Election, Bishop James and Bishop Simon have shared a message with the Diocese.

"As Advent and Christmas appear over the horizon, so now we face a General Election on December 12. We are writing to encourage you and your church members to engage with all three in a way that bears witness to the coming Kingdom of God."

In particular around the Election, churches and individuals are encouraged to:

"pray for generosity in debate, wisdom in policy forming, and to show hospitality in offering our buildings as places for hustings so the democratic process can be enabled."

The bishops state that the General Election comes at a time of division and a break-down in civility over the way issues are discussed:

"The way we discuss issues of local and national importance has become bitter and divisive." 

They add:

"Social media has opened up a vista of nastiness where public servants are being threatened in the ordinary course of their duties."

Into this, they say the churches have an important role:

"The local church is well placed to help in the necessary process of healing and reconciliation that we face; to encourage true community where the voiceless and the most vulnerable have their role."

Referencing Jeremiah 29:11 ‘For surely I know the plans I have you…plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope’ (Jer. 29:11), the bishops sa that this is ther prayer for the UK.

The message also includes a number of resources that churches might find useful as they reflect on their part in the election process. 

Read their message in full here

 

Download two prayers to use and share

Prayer 1

Prayer 2

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