ACT Prayer Points

Week Commencing 5th July

"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority... This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth."
1 Timothy 2:1–4 (NIV)

"Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain."
Psalm 127:1 (NIV)

Pray for Education Reform

Following Andy Burnham's call for a "complete rethink" of education, with greater emphasis on both academic and technical pathways, pray that any reforms would genuinely enable every child to flourish and fulfil their God-given potential.

Please pray:

• For wisdom for those shaping education policy, particularly Andy Burnham and all in positions of leadership.
• That reforms would equip young people well for adulthood, work, and service, valuing a range of gifts and vocational pathways.
• For schools, colleges, and universities as they prepare the next generation, that they would pursue truth, wisdom, and excellence.
• That any further devolution of education responsibilities would bring clarity, effectiveness, and improved outcomes for young people.
• That our government would govern with integrity, humility, and wisdom, creating conditions in which schools, families, and communities can flourish under God's guidance.

Pray for Religious Education and the forthcoming curriculum changes

The government has announced plans for Religious Education (RE) to become part of the National Curriculum for the first time, following what it describes as a “consensus” among faith groups and stakeholders. However, concerns remain among some members of the reference panel that a genuine consensus has not been reached, particularly around the representation of faith communities and the implications for Christianity’s established place within the RE curriculum.

Please pray:

• For wisdom and discernment as Christian educators and organisations consider how to respond to the forthcoming consultation.

• That the voices of faith communities, particularly Christians, would be heard and properly represented in decisions about the future of RE.

• That any changes to RE would uphold its distinctive legal basis and ensure that pupils continue to receive high-quality, balanced, and meaningful religious education.

• For those shaping education policy, that they would act with integrity, wisdom, and a commitment to serving the good of children and society.