“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
Isaiah 43:18 -19

Father we declare that You are the only hope for our Borough and we come to You as the only One who can bring about restoration and wholeness. We thank You that there is nothing that we can do that would make You love us more, but You also love us too much to let us remain as we are! May Your light shine brighter in the many areas of our society here in Ealing and we thank You that it is Your desire to bring transformation and change. We proclaim a release of the resources that are available to meet the needs of the community.

We acknowledge that You are working ahead of us and we are grateful for all that You are doing within the Borough. Open our eyes to see more clearly what You are already doing and enable us to work together with You as well as with one another. As Your disciples may we be people who not only listen to You but also obey what You say.

We repent of the bustle and busyness which exists within our lives and distracts us from the peace and rest which You intend for us. May many come unto You to find peace and rest, and choose what is best by seeking to find out what pleases You. We are grateful that You promise to give wisdom, knowledge and joy to those who please You.

We proclaim freedom for those who are held captive in all sorts of ways and recovery of sight for those who are spiritually blind. We proclaim release to those who are oppressed and declare the favour of the Lord upon Ealing. May those who are seeking to please themselves have a growing dissatisfaction and be introduced to the life that You came to give.

We pray for a greater openness within the Borough and that good relationships will replace any feeling of isolation. You have declared that it is not good for mankind to be alone and so we pray for good friendships to develop particularly by those who feel cut off from the rest of society. May the Church in Ealing consist of people who are welcoming and friendly to all.

We pray for justice and truth to be exercised by all in authority, that they will not abuse their position but will act with honesty and integrity. We pray that they will be responsive to people’s needs and have an equal concern for all. Where there is indifference may this be replaced by responsiveness and respect. We pray that kindness, mercy, compassion and justice will be the trademark of Ealing and that we will be a people whose word can be trusted and respected.

We choose this day to receive God’s promises for Ealing and live in the blessings that He gives.

Amen