For centuries Portsmouth Cathedral has been a beacon for people on land and at sea, helping them navigate the passage of time with faith and confidence in God. As we enter into uncertain times, Portsmouth Cathedral will continue to be a beacon of light and hope, joining Cathedrals and churches across the UK for a month of prayer as a second lockdown in England comes into force.

Throughout the month, people will be encouraged to pray daily for a specific area of national concern, wherever they are, culminating into a collective moment of prayer at 6pm each evening.

A simple seven-day prayer cycle is also available, giving guidance on praying for a specific area each day including the NHS and frontline workers, the bereaved, and those struggling with physical and mental ill-health, and for children and young people.

Portsmouth Cathedral have been providing prayer resources online as well as continuing to stream daily services including morning and evening prayer. Addition resources will be also be available on social media with the hashtag #PrayerForTheNation.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said: “On the brink of this second lockdown we might understandably feel helpless, anxious and vulnerable. And we do what we can to halt the spread of this virus – but we can still feel powerless.

“Is there anything else we can do? Really do?

“Yes. Yes there is. We can pray. Prayer is my first response when I feel out of my depth, when I need help, when I am worried, when I am concerned for those I love.
It is a gift that God gives to all - whether you are a regular pray-er or not - bring your cares and the cares of the nation to God. For God loves and hears and holds. Prayer changes things.”

The Church of England website will also host a selection of resources to suit those from across all denominations and traditions, and people exploring faith at this challenging time. Portsmouth Cathedral will remain open for individual private prayer throughout the lockdown, with our regularly scheduled livestreamed services continuing throughout November into December.

We understand this will be a difficult time from all, with much uncertainty – but Portsmouth Cathedral will continue to provide ‘light in the darkness’, especially as we head into the Advent and Christmas seasons.  Keep up to date with all of our services, events and news from our website and socials, or be the first to know by joining our weekly mailing list.