We encourage everyone to develop an intentional and life‑giving routine of prayer, and to become involved in the prayer life of the Benefice. We support this by organising prayer events: quiet days, prayer days, a week of guided prayer, individual guidance on prayer, teaching on public and private prayer, and opportunities to pray regularly with and for others. There is a strong home‑group tradition within the Benefice, with meetings throughout the week for Bible study and prayer. The healing ministry plays an important part in the life of all three churches, with special services each month and regular times of prayer.

Click here for Archbishop Justin Welby's lecture on 'The risk of prayer', focusing on the renewal of prayer and why we should pray.

Lord, we are in awe of our planet

and all around us there is beauty and wonder.

Yet we also know the daily toll of our 21st century lifestyles

in our towns and cities, mountains and beaches.

And we know that we must change our ways.

Help us to find the wisdom and courage as individuals,

as congregations and as nations

to take the steps that are needed

to save the planet for future generations.

Amen

Lynne Ling, Synod Secretary, Bedfordshire, Essex and Hertfordshire District,

The Methodist Church, 2020

Humanity, flora and fauna

Creator God,

you have brought together humankind and nature,

interdependent and vulnerable to each other.

Give to us all, we pray,

a sense of proportion and wonder,

a respect for difference and uniqueness.

Let there be amazement at the power of nature,

as your plan is revealed,

as we see your power,

and as we rediscover our care

for all that is in your world.

Amen.

Rupert Bristow, Prayers for Inclusion and Diversity, Kevin Mayhew, 2012