Sunday 18 January 2026

A prayer that we might share God's beauty

We thank you, loving God, that you have put us in a place where we can reach out and support all those who are active in bringing your word to your people. Let us be open to your Holy Spirit so that what we do brings blessings to others. May we hear the song you have placed in our hearts and be open to sharing it so that the beautiful music of your Resurrection will be heard throughout the land.

Jane Lloyd, Chair, Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust

Christian Unity Week

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is 18 to January 25. The theme this year is “There is one body and one Spirit”, based on Ephesians 4:4.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ,
You bring us together in all our diversity,
as family and church.
In the face of so many situations on earth,
where hope has given way to despair
and hearts are wounded and emptied by disappointment,
renew our strength and unify us.
Help us to share Your hope wherever we find ourselves.
You are the true Light,
who casts out the darkness of sin,
despair and brokenness,
who shines into our hearts, releasing the joy
and the true hope of Your eternal love for all.
Amen.

You can find information and the CTBI resources for Christian Unity Week this prayer was taken from here.

CTBI

Prayer for Iran

God of Peace,
We hold the people of Iran in this time of deep distress.
Where there is fear - grant Your peace.
Where there is violence - bring Your protection.
Where hearts are hurting - pour out Your comfort.

Loving God, we pray especially for those mourning the loss of loved ones,
for those who are injured, imprisoned, or afraid,
and for those seeking justice, freedom, and dignity.
Surround them with Your love.

We pray for leaders and those in authority -
grant wisdom, restraint, and compassion.
Turn the hearts of those with power toward healing,
not harm; toward reconciliation and peace

In our prayers, we remember our sisters and brothers
who worship with us in our churches here in Britain
We thank you, God, for the blessing they bring to our church communities.
God of mercy, we ask for Your Spirit to move in Iran -
to bring peace, hope, and a future of justice.
May Your love be known by every person affected by these events.

Amen.

Prayer for Iran

A prayer for God's presence with us - Alternative Prayer

Be to us at all times, O Lord, our joy, our bliss and our comfort. Be light in our darkness, strength in our temptations and refreshment in the desert. Penitent may we know your peace, faithful may we behold you in glory. Amen.

Margery Kempe (c. 1373-1433)