PRAYER

Prayer is at the core of who we are. In a world where there's a growing call for intercession as creation cries out, we want to be part of this movement as a church and as individuals. We aim for our lives, our homes, and our church to be places where seeking God in prayer comes first.

Remember in your Prayers this week

  • God’s peace and justice in all war-torn places of the world, especially Ukraine and the Middle East

  • Those bereaved, injured or displaced by the Columbian earthquake, and the Indonesian earthquake, and the wildfires in the UK and around the world

  • The bereaved; especially the loved ones of Patrick Hobbs and Doreen Maddock. (Doreen’s Thanksgiving Service will be on Thursday 20th August at 2:00pm in St Mary’s Church. All are welcome – please wear something colourful.)

  • The sick, in mind, body or spirit

  • GCSE students who will receive their results on Thursday

Need Prayer?

We believe prayer is both a privilege and a source of hope. No request is too big or too small - Jesus welcomes every prayer with love and compassion. If you or someone you know needs prayer, send us your request. A dedicated group of prayerful members will lift it up for you, keeping your information confidential and praying faithfully on your behalf.

Request a Prayer

Monthly Prayer Focus: August

Stories of Faith: Praying for the Next Story

Throughout July, we have been praying that the stories of faith shared through our Stories of Faith sermon series would encourage others to discover faith for themselves. As we move into August, that prayer continues – but with a fresh focus.

We have been reminded that God has always worked through the lives of ordinary people. The Bible is full of stories of men and women who encountered God in the midst of everyday life: Abraham stepping into the unknown, Ruth remaining faithful through loss, Esther finding courage, Daniel standing firm, and so many others. Their stories continue to inspire us because they reveal a God who is still at work today.

Over recent weeks, we have also heard stories from members of our own church family. Different journeys. Different experiences. One faithful God. These personal stories remind us that faith is not something distant or reserved for a select few. It is lived out in ordinary lives, often through moments of joy, struggle, doubt and hope.

For many people, faith doesn't begin with having all the answers. It begins with a conversation. A question. A relationship. Often it begins when someone they know shares, simply and honestly, what God has done in their life.

As we look ahead to the launch of Alpha at the end of September, this month's prayer is for those people who have not yet discovered their own story of faith. Each of us knows someone – a friend, neighbour, colleague or family member – who may be searching for meaning, hope or purpose, even if they would never describe themselves that way. Pray that God would be preparing their hearts, opening opportunities for conversation, and giving us the courage to invite them.

Pray too for those in our church family who will be welcoming guests, leading discussions and serving throughout Alpha. Ask that every person who comes would find a place where they feel safe to ask questions, explore faith honestly, and encounter the love of Christ through genuine friendship and hospitality.

As we continue to pray this month, perhaps bring one or two people to God by name each day. Ask that their next conversation, invitation or unexpected encounter might become the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

After all, every story of faith has a beginning.

Perhaps, by God's grace, the next story is waiting to be written.

Prayer for the Month

Loving Father,
Thank you for the stories of faith that have encouraged us and reminded us that you are still at work today.

We pray for those who do not yet know you. Prepare their hearts, open doors for meaningful conversations, and help us to be people who listen well, love generously and speak naturally about the hope we have found in you.

As we prepare for Alpha, bless everyone who will serve, invite and take part. May it be a place where questions are welcomed, friendships are formed, and lives are transformed by your love.

Help us to remember that every journey of faith begins somewhere, and use us, in whatever way you choose, to help others discover the story you are writing in their lives.
Amen.