Special prayers for a new bishop tonight in Down Cathedral
Dean Hull invites as many people as possible to join him in Down Cathedral this evening to pray for the election of a new bishop.
He says: “This is a very important time for our diocese, and while not everyone will be able to attend one of our Cathedral prayer nights, everyone across the diocese can commit to praying for the process each day until we have a new bishop. I would urge people to make sure their prayer cards are prominently displayed somewhere as a reminder to do this. People may also wish to consider dedicating time not just to prayer but to fasting/abstinence as a sacrificial act that will further prayer as we seek God’s will together.”
You are welcome to come for some or all of the evening, which will be divided into three sessions of around 40 minutes each.
The night will include a variety of worship and prayer using liturgy, scripture reflection, informal and open prayer times, praise, music and periods of silence.
Programme
7.30–8.10 pm First Session
8.10–8.50 pm Second Session
8.50–9.30 pm Third Session
There will be a short comfort break between each session. Tea and coffee and light refreshments will be available throughout the night.
The second night of prayer in Dromore Cathedral will be on Friday 25 October from 7.30 pm. Further details will be published in due course.
A prayer for use during the Vacancy of a See (BCP 2004)
O almighty God, who by thy Holy Spirit dost move the hearts of thy people; May it please thee so to direct the counsels of those who are appointed to choose a bishop for this Church and Diocese, that we may be given a pastor who in faithfulness and wisdom shall lead thy flock in the way of holiness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Electoral College
The Electoral College is made up of 1 Archbishop, 2 Bishops, 12 clergy and 12 laity from this diocese and 12 clergy and 12 laity from other dioceses in the Province.