We pray for those living in countries where their sexuality is outlawed. Same-sex relations are illegal in 70 nations today, including 11 where homosexuality is potentially punishable by death. God, we pray protection for those living in secrecy and fear, and for these repressive laws to be removed.ray
We give thanks for the efforts of a group of ex-soldiers to ensure their Afghan interpreter could be granted asylum in the UK. Through bringing a legal challenge to the Home Office, they were able to overturn a decision to reject his application. God, we honour the love and friendship shown by this group. Help us to learn from their compassion and solidarity.
We give thanks for a series of renewable energy projects in ex-industrial areas of northern England. Thousands of new jobs are promised as green opportunities crop up in areas that have lost heavy industry. God, we pray that these projects would be beneficial for the planet and for local economies.
We pray for NHS nurses, who are dealing with the pressure of staff shortages. 1 in 10 posts in England is unfilled, making it hard to meet the care needs of every patient. God, we give thanks for the vital work that nurses do. We pray that they would be supported in their work and wellbeing.
We pray for the Middle East, which is facing ever-more frequent and severe dust storms. These can cause respiratory illness, crop failure, destruction of property, shutdown of entire regions, and death. God, we pray that these storms would cease and their impact be reduced.
We pray for justice for the survivors of the Grenfell Tower fire, which happened five years ago this week. The inquiry into the disaster is expected to conclude later this summer. God, we lament the tragedy of what happened in 2017. We pray that survivors and relatives of victims would see justice, and that action would be taken to ensure this cannot happen again.
We pray for China, the world’s biggest carbon emitter, to act faster on climate change. A new policy document has outlined the need to improve adaptation measures, but does not address mitigation or moving the net zero target sooner than 2060. God, we give thanks for this step in the right direction. Help China to make wise decisions for the good of the whole planet.
