Churches join in with five days of national prayer for unity as the deadline for Brexit approaches

Churches join in with five days of national prayer for unity as the deadline for Brexit approaches

Bishops serving the Diocese of Manchester have called for churches to join in with five days of national prayer for unity as the deadline for Brexit approaches.

Churches are being encouraged to host informal café-style meetings over the weekend of 30 March to bring together people of all standpoints and encourage open discussion.

Backed by the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, resources launched include prayers for use in services and special gatherings. They also include invitations for people to ‘get together and chat over a cup of tea and pray for our country and our future’.

The Bishop of Manchester, Dr David Walker, said: "Ahead of the 2016 referendum, the faith leaders of Greater Manchester committed themselves to working for the unity of all our people, in the face of the divisions brought on by the Brexit process. That commitment will be even more important in the days ahead."

Rev'd Gill Barnett said: “Rochdale Parish Church, St Chad's will be open on Saturday 30 March from 10.00am – 3.00pm.

“We hope to have people from different churches around just to help people put things into perspective and to seek wisdom - we will use conversation, prayer, tea and cake!

“The invitation to join us is open to people of all faiths and none. There is no set agenda, this is just a drop-in.

“Support will be offered by listening and through prayer.”