ICF - Prayer Focus

Civil rights workers, trade union officials, umbrella makers, insurers, loss adjusters and underwriters; providers of anti-corrosion treatments, under-pinners, health and safety inspectors and staff, machine guard manufacturers, asbestos removers, , installers and operators of surveillance video recorders, plastic coaters, enamellers, descalers, flood defence workers, those who oversee patents and copyright law; manufacturers of protective clothing.

Recent events have reminded us of our fragility and vulnerability as human beings. As we continue to cautiously regain some of our regular rhythms and patterns of working, our scheduled prayer focus is for those who work in the area of insurance and providing protection. This generates a new relevance in our present situation - as we pray for those who specifically provide protection, we are reminded also of our need to protect ourselves and each other through our actions, behaviours and habits.

Sovereign Protector, your care for the creation you love is unending. Even amidst the turmoil and disruption we currently face, may we be assured of your unchanging presence and conern.

As we recognise our own need for protection, we are reminded that in your mercy and grace, you call us all to protect and shield the vulnerable, care for the stranger and watch over one another. So as we give you thanks for those who, through their employment, protect us from harm and help restore those things that are lost and damaged - remind us of the part we are each called to play in creating a safe environment for all.

And so may we remember, that in whatever way we seek to provide safety, refuge and security - we reflect the nature of God, our rock and our fortress. AMEN

Regular prayer for the world of work can be a significant feature in Sunday services. ICF seeks to provide a variety of resources to help those who prepare these. Prayer of this nature is important because:

It encourages Christians to see their working lives as part of their Christian Identity
It helps those involved in the world of work, particularly when their job makes it difficult to participate in church activities, to feel affirmed and valued.
It is a vital part of our intercessory responsibility to the community around us.
It communicates a faith that is relevant to real issues to those who visit our churches

Each week, we highhlight different groups of workers and encourage our members and followers to particularly pray for people who work in that sector. We also encourage local churches to include regular prayers for the world of work

As you pray, Consider what might be said in the context of thanksgiving, confession and intercession, both for the workers concerned and for those present.

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