A church bell is being rung in the heart of Nidderdale each evening throughout November, as the power of prayer is harnessed during the pandemic.
With communal worship banned during lockdown, Christians are being encouraged to participate in a month of reflection in their homes, focusing on issues of national concern arising from the coronavirus crisis.
The Rev. Alastair Ferneley, Vicar of Dacre with Hartwith and Darley with Thornthwaite, is ensuring that Nidderdale’s daily tea-time chime joins those ringing out at cathedrals and churches across England.
He told the Stray Ferret:
“I’m ringing our single bell at Holy Trinity, Dacre Banks at 6pm each evening – so far successfully on time, though it’s possible the time will vary a little.”
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The call for a daily collective moment of national prayer signalled by the sound of bells, has the support of senior religious leaders from many different denominations.
Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, said:
“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.”
The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, added:
“At this challenging time when all of us are fearful and anxious, and when so many are suffering, it is the one thing we can all do.”
Nidderdale – taking part in the national call to prayer
Christians are being encouraged to follow a seven-day prayer cycle, 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.
Prayers and other resources are being shared on social media with the hashtag #PrayerForTheNation
Rev Alastair is keeping his parishioners updated. He said:
“I’ve been sending out the information about the month of prayer so that people can take part in their own homes, if they wish.”
