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UK News

EU reconciliation prayer released ahead of Sunday services

The prayer of reconciliation - released before churches across the country hold services on Sunday morning - reads: "Eternal God, Light of the nations, in Christ you make all things new.

"Guide our nation in the coming days through the inspiration of your Spirit, that understanding may put an end to discord and all bitterness.

"Give us grace to rebuild bonds of trust that together we may work for the dignity and flourishing of all; through Jesus Christ our Lord."

The prayer is accompanied by a litany following the same theme, which includes the statement "Guide our nation in the days and months ahead to walk the paths of peace and reconciliation. Hear us, Lord of life," where congregation members answer "Lord, graciously hear us."

Yesterday, Christians were urged by the Archbishops of Canterbury and York to "act with humility and courage" after the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union.

In a joint statement, Most Revd Justin Welby and Dr John Sentamu said: "As citizens of the United Kingdom, whatever our views during the referendum campaign, we must now unite in a common task to build a generous and forward looking country, contributing to human flourishing around the world.

"We must remain hospitable and compassionate, builders of bridges and not barriers. Many of those living among us and alongside us as neighbours, friends and work colleagues come from overseas and some will feel a deep sense of insecurity.

"We must respond by offering reassurance, by cherishing our wonderfully diverse society, and by affirming the unique contribution of each and every one."

Meanwhile, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, the Catholic Archbishop of Westminster, said the UK "must work hard to show ourselves to be good neighbours" following the vote.

He added: "A great tradition of the United Kingdom is to respect the will of the people, expressed at the ballot box. Today, we set out on a new course that will be demanding on all.

"Our prayer is that all will work in this task with respect and civility, despite deep differences of opinion.

"We pray that in this process the most vulnerable will be supported and protected, especially those who are easy targets for unscrupulous employees and human traffickers.

"We pray that our nations will build on our finest traditions of generosity, of welcome for the stranger and shelter for the needy."

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