26/11/2019
As local church leaders here in Arnold we have written to all of the candidates in the Gedling constituency to let them know we are praying for them and we are praying for the outcome of this election and its impact on our community.
We are also inviting others to join us on Weds 11th December at 10.30am to pray too
Read the full letter below, or see the attached image:
Dear Candidates in Gedling,
We are writing this open letter on behalf of the local churches here in Arnold.
Firstly, we appreciate the sacrifices you and your families make during these intense weeks of the campaign, acknowledging the abuse you might experience in such a heated climate. We would like to thank you for your courage in standing for election and your commitment to the community.
As local churches we believe in the power and centrality of prayer and we will be praying for you and for the right outcome for this election, as it says in the Bible, in a letter written to Timothy a young leader: “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone, for kings and all those in authority...” 1 Timothy 2:1-2a
Alongside our personal prayers we have decided as local Christians to hold a short silent prayer gathering on Wednesday 11th December at 10.30am. For 10 minutes those that are able to attend will gather on the forecourt outside the Methodist Church and kneel to pray in silence.
What will we pray? Not for our favourite party or candidate to win but for love, freedom, justice and truth:
Love: At the heart of the Christian faith is love. A love for all in our community, a love that wants to see the best for our neighbours, a love that brings us together despite our differences and differing opinions, a love that honours and speaks well of others. We pray that this election campaign will stand out for its love and honouring of each other in a time our community so needs uniting.
Freedom: We pray that we would see people become free as a result of this election. Free from debt, free from loneliness, free from hopelessness, free from addictions.
Justice: We pray that our constituency would be marked for its just decisions. It would be a place where all are welcomed, its streets would be a safe place marked out by respect for each other and a place where no one feels marginalised.
Truth: We pray for us all that our motive to serve the community is honourable and about what others can gain not what we personally can gain. We pray that this election campaign is marked by truth and respect not slander and negative comments.
As the writer of the letter to Timothy goes on to say: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour”
Be assured of our prayers at this time
Yours
The Church Leaders in Arnold.