The Evangelical Alliance has devised a "simple, straight-forward" prayer resource pack to help Christians pray effectively for people in power.

The Evangelical Alliance said it was a "crucial time when Members of Parliament need our prayer support".

Jointly developed by Bible Society, Christians in Parliament, Christians in Government and 24/7 Prayer, the pack suggests four simple ways to pray during the week of Prayer for Parliament and Whitehall in June.

“Christians in Parliament are hugely grateful for the prayers of Christians across the country. I trust that these prayer resources will help you to pray in an informed and relevant way, and that together we can make a positive contribution to seeing our nation blessed and healed," said Andrew Selous, MP for South West Bedfordshire.

Churches can take advantage of ready-to-use power-point presentations such as a parliamentary prayer guide for use in church services. A 60-minute prayer meeting plan gives an opportunity for in-depth communal prayer or individuals can follow a seven-day personal prayer guide during the week. The pack highlights information on websites and points to what is happening in the political world and specific ways to pray.

Andy Reed, MP for Loughborough, asked Christian not to underestimate the power of prayer.

“Christians are called to serve and lead in politics and government - and prayer is where we need to start," he said. "With the Bible, prayer needs to be shaping and guiding our words and actions as we obey the call to disciple the nations for Christ.”

As part of the Week of Prayer for Parliament and Whitehall, many churches around the UK and across the world will be praying through the nights and even through the entire week. For those looking to get involved in such a challenge, the resource pack also offers ideas for hosting these kinds of continuous prayer events.

The annual event, organised by Christians in Parliament, Christians in Government, Bible Society and 24/7 prayer, has the support of MPs and peers from each of the major political parties and Christians are invited to get involved regardless of personal political viewpoints.


On the web:

For all event details and for more information on how individuals and churches can be involved, visit www.christiansinparliament.org.uk