Prisons Week of Prayer

11 - 17th October 2020

Spurgeons is one of twenty faith-based organisations working in prisons who come together to plan this annual campaign, which starts on Prisons Sunday, the second Sunday in October. The aim is to raise awareness and encourage prayer for everyone affected by imprisonment and the criminal justice system. We take an active part in preparing the prayer resources, available from the Prisons Week of Prayer website.

Visit Prisonsweek.org

United in Lockdown

The word ‘lockdown’ is everyday language in prisons. Since COVID-19 we have all become familiar with what it means and feels like. We may have a better understanding of what life can be like both inside and outside the prison walls for prisoners and their children and families, of the loneliness and difficulties of separation, of living with constant uncertainty and trying to stay hopeful and positive.

Spurgeons staff have had to find different ways of supporting families and children unable to visit their dads and relatives in prison, to try to keep a connection, so that they know that our help for all of them continues to be there – that they are not alone.

Find out more about our work in prisons

Prisons Week Prayer

For forty years this prayer has been spoken, read and offered by thousands of individuals and congregations during Prisons Week.

Prisons Week Prayer

Lord, you offer freedom to all people.
We pray for those in prison.
Break the bonds of fear and isolation that exist.
Support with your love
prisoners and their families and friends,
prison staff and all who care.
Heal those who have been wounded
by the actions of others,
especially the victims of crime.
Help us to forgive one another,
to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly together
with Christ in his strength and in his Spirit,
now and every day.

Amen.