Moderator joins call for national day of prayer

The Church of Scotland is supporting calls for a National Day of Prayer and Action on 22 March, which is also Mothering Sunday.

Rt Rev Colin Sinclair is joining the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, and other church leaders to issue a national call to prayer.

The Moderator said:

"There are many different ways the Church can and should offer support and help to their communities at this time, but one way is through prayer. We believe in a God who hears and answers prayer.

"We are encouraged to come honestly in prayer, sharing openly our emotions, questions and concerns in the light of COVID 19.

"We have become aware in a new way of our frailty and need to renew our dependence on God. I welcome this call to prayer across the UK and encourage you to join in it this Sunday wherever you are."

Light a candle

The call to prayer asks everyone to light a candle at 7pm on Sunday as ‘a visible symbol of the light of life, Jesus Christ, our source and hope in prayer.'

Church leaders are seeking to quell fears and remind us of God's presence and love. They write:

"At such a time as this, when so many are fearful and there is great uncertainty, we are reminded of our dependence on our loving Heavenly Father and the future that he holds."

Pray for leaders

"We have the great privilege and freedom to be able to call upon God, wherever we are, individually and corporately, for healing in our nation. We would pray for all in leadership at this time, making decisions about the containment of the COVID-19 virus, for those working in health and social care, and especially for the most vulnerable, whether elderly or those with underlying health conditions.

"There are already stories being told of wonderful acts of kindness across neighbourhoods. Alongside your prayers, take the opportunity to telephone or email someone who is isolated, buy some additional food for your local foodbank, offer to deliver shopping for an elderly neighbour. We may not be able to touch physically, but we can make connections in so many other ways.

"At 7pm this Sunday, light a candle in the windows of your homes as a visible symbol of the light of life, Jesus Christ, our source and hope in prayer.

Mothering Sunday

"We note that this call to prayer and action comes on Mothering Sunday: a time of thankfulness, remembering especially mothers that have served us, often in very costly ways. It is also a very mixed day for many.

"For some the remembrance is painful, and for others Mothering Sunday is a reminder of disappointment or loss. In many ways, this period under the shadow of the coronavirus will be prompting similarly diverse reactions and so it seems especially appropriate that the call to prayer is made this Sunday.

"Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you" 1 Peter 5:7