Sometimes the best way to let off steam about something is simply to create some ... by putting the kettle on!

This week, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York have been encouraging parishes across the country to hold Brexit 'conversation and prayer' events. (Tea and coffee optional!) 

The hope is these events will help bring the country together over the weekend of 29-31 March, and particularly on March 29 – the original date set for leaving the EU. Resources are also available (pictured right and link below) to help promote events that are held. 

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said: "This is an opportunity for the Church of England to join together in prayer for God’s kingdom to come, and for the good of all in society. I hope that each of us will take hold of the promotional resources to help us pray for our country at this critical time."

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, added: “St Paul advises and urges Timothy to ‘offer petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone, for sovereigns, and for all in high office so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life, free to practice our religion with dignity. Such prayer is right, and approved by God our Saviour, whose will it is that all should find salvation and come to know the truth…’ (1 Timothy 2:2 ff). Beloved in Christ, let us also pray without ceasing.”

If your parish is able to hold an event – it can be large or small; specifically organised or perhaps held on the back of an existing prayer event – you will find an article with a longer message from the Archbishops here on the national Church of England website and a variety of supporting resources here.

Under the slogan ‘together,’ the packs include specially-chosen Bible passages, new prayers and prompt questions to start conversations.

Questions for those attending include: ‘What effect has Brexit had in your family relationships, friendships etc and if you disagreed, has it been possible to disagree well?’ and: ‘What are the three main things we have in common that we can build on for a better future as a community and as a nation?’

Ronnie Semley, March 21 2019