"Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the end of the earth I call to you, when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I; for you are my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy."
I was one of those holding hands around Crich memorial tower for the Clypping service during Archbishop Justin’s visit, praying for the coming of God’s kingdom among us – that all within our diocese might know the love of God.
The wind was so strong we were all struggling to stand still and not be blown off our feet.
It reminded me of the power of God’s Spirit at work amongst us and the privilege of being invited to join in with what God is already doing amongst us.
As a diocese, we have chosen to intentionally focus on deepening our relationship with God and pray for new disciples to join us in our journey of faith during the period from Easter to Pentecost.
Our bishops are holding prayer days and pilgrimages within each deanery to which all are invited and will be warmly welcomed.
They are:
- 6 May - Peak Deanery
- 7 May - Derby City Deanery
- 8 May - Hardwick Deanery
- 10 May - Dove and Derwent Deanery
- 11 May - North East Derbyshire Deanery
- 13 May - South East Derbyshire Deanery
- 14 May - Mercia Deanery
- 18 May - Carsington Deanery
We are also joining in the global prayer movement ‘Thy Kingdom Come’ encouraging us all to commit to praying for five people we know to come to faith, following the example of the first disciples who after the resurrection devoted themselves to prayer (Acts 1:14).
Resources to help you pray have been disseminated to our churches – resources available include a prayer journal, novena and Cheeky Panda sticker and online activities.
Take a look:
It is my prayer that as we set these days apart to pray and wait upon God with expectation and anticipation that we will be refreshed and renewed as God pours out his Spirit and more people come to know the transforming, life-giving love of God.
The Venerable Nicky Fenton
Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales
