UK Christian leaders call for prayer in aftermath of Manchester police deaths

By Peter Wooding
Europe Bureau Chief for ASSIST News Service

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND (ANS) – After two police officers were killed in Manchester this week, UK Christian leaders are calling on all churches across the country to hold a one minute silence this Sunday and to pray for all those affected by this tragedy.

According to BBC reports a man has been remanded in custody after appearing in court charged with murdering two police officers and two men in Greater Manchester.

The unarmed officers were shot dead after they were called to investigate an alleged burglary at a house in Abbey Gardens on Tuesday.

Debra Green, OBE, Founder of the Manchester-based organisation
Redeeming Our Communities said: “The whole nation is feeling the impact of the tragic loss of two police officers, Nicola and Fiona. Our charity has been working in partnership with the police since 1998 and we feel prompted to do something to express our support at this time.”

The Bishop of Manchester Rt Revd Nigel McCulloch, who has issued a special prayer that many churches across Manchester and nationwide will use this weekend, said: “I want to convey to you our shock at the horrific killing of the two young policewomen, together with our continuing thoughts and prayers for their families, and for you and the Greater Manchester Police Force at this time of heart-rending bereavement.

“I want to express to you not only our sorrow about what has happened, but our constant appreciation for the bravery and commitment of your police officers.”

Global Day of Prayer London Convener Pastor Jonathan Oloyede said:

“The shocking and unexpected death of Fiona Bone and Nicola Hughes, two police officers on duty in the Hattersley
part of Manchester on Tuesday have caused heartache for their families.

He added: “But, it has also enabled the wider community and country at large to stand together and grieve. As our national leaders have said, this has brought into sharp focus the work that our Police do and we stand with all those who serve on the front line, remembering especially Greater Manchester Police at this difficult time. We also pray for the young people.

“I want to issue a mandate to every Christian in this nation as we approach the National Day of Prayer and Worship at Wembley on September 29th, to join in praying for all those have been affected by this week’s event. The power of prayer works and we need to call upon our merifcul God to hear our prayers for our communities. It is at difficult times that God puts his people in the right position to respond.

“I urge you to make space in your worship on Sunday to observe the one minutes silence at 11.00am for those who died and call to mind with thanksgiving those who serve in your own village, town or city. I commend the prayer which the Bishop of Manchester has written and ask you to boldly proclaim Amen.”