Welsh bishops have greeted confirmation of the general election on May 6 with a reminder to Christians that voting is a “Christian duty”.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown announced the date today, sparking what is expected to be one of the most narrowly contested election campaigns since John Major’s surprise victory in 1992.

In a statement, the bishops reminded Christians that the right to vote had been won at a price and that it should be used to help create a more just society.

They are encouraging churches to get involved in the election by holding debates between local candidates and praying for those standing for election. A set of suggested prayers has been issued by the bishops to help Christians prepare.

“For Christians, voting at the time of elections is not only a privilege but a duty and we write to urge you to take this responsibility seriously,” they said.

The bishops, who include the Archbishop of Wales the Most Rev Barry Morgan, urged Christians to follow the example of Jesus by sharing His concern to meet the needs of the world and bring about a more just society.

They recommended that in the run-up to the election Christians pay particularly close attention to what the parties and candidates have to say about the sanctity of life, creation care, freedom of belief, family life, child poverty, care of the elderly and building local communities.

“There are many parts of the world today where people do not have the opportunity of participating in a democratic process, and even in our own country the right for all adult citizens to vote was won at a price,” they said.

“There is of course, a temptation for people to vote for the party that will best serve their own interest, but as Christians we need to focus on gospel values and consider the ‘common good’.”

They added: “Above all we urge you to use your vote; it can make a difference.”