Diocesan Day of Prayer April 2023

Feedback to our 24-hours of focused prayer on 19^th and 20^th April 2023

Worship Leaders from St Peter’s CE Primary & Nursery School, Wem took part in Wem and Whitchurch Deanery's prayer slot.

 Emily said: "It was lovely to be a part of the day and hear other school's prayers. I recognised some of   them from groups I go to. I was nervous because people were watching but we were all there   together"

 Oscar said: "I liked telling the people about our school and we worship.  We learn a lot and know   about Courageous Advocacy from Rev Debs. It's nice to show people what we do at St Peter's. I hope they liked  our prayers."

On behalf of the diocesan team, thank you so much to all those who took part in the latest Day of Prayer. This was our sixth 24-hours of prayer, and we were delighted to see the variety of ways deaneries were represented. Wem and Whitchurch Deanery involved pupils from three of their church schools, others made use of existing meetings for prayer already happening in parishes and benefices, another met before a deanery synod meeting.

The opening and closing sessions were led by Bishop Michael, with the opening session coming from the Bishop’s Staff Meeting.

We were also very pleased to be supported by diocesan departments, chaplains, the Mothers’ Union and by staff and friends of Lichfield Cathedral; as well as some of the World Mission working groups for our links with companion dioceses.

It was good that the dedicated Zoom room was occupied throughout the 24-hour period, though additional sessions were held via Facebook, parish Zoom accounts and in person.

We are very grateful to those who volunteer to keep prayer rising throughout the night; and, even though the early hours are not the most popular, we are always looking out for ‘night owls’ to support us!

As part of the evaluation process, we look forward to hearing about the impact the Day of Prayer has had across the diocese – please email Denise Keen by Friday 26^th May, with your thoughts and experiences and do continue to let us know of answers to prayer; and suggestions for future events.

If your deanery was unable to engage this time, we would also value your feedback as to how we might accommodate your prayer needs and encourage you to join us in the future.

The next Day of Prayer will be Wednesday 25^th/ Thursday 26^th October 2023 – please add this to your diary now and ask friends, colleagues and parishes to do the same. Please let me know which slot you would prefer as soon as you have decided, 4 slots have already been booked!

Week by week, the Diocesan Prayer Diary gives ideas to encourage our praying with a focus on a different deanery each week, along with a regular weekly focus on the world church and various roles and ministries around the Diocese. Denise Keen to receive the Prayer Diary regularly and to request items be included.

May we be shaped by the Good News of Jesus, the light of the world
And may we seek your kingdom as People of Hope. Amen.  (Taken from the Shaping for Mission prayer)

The next Diocesan Day of Prayer will be held on 25/26 October 2023 - please note the date and watch this space for further details!