This last fortnight, the police have been much in our thoughts. The report of the Hillsborough disaster reminded us of the consequences of them making the wrong split second decision and the temptation to misuse the position of authority. But this week, the cold-blooded murders of Fiona Bone and Nicola Hughes, police officers from Manchester, reminded us of all that is good in the police service and of the risks that police officers carry out everyday on our behalf.Like many other churches across the country, we held a one-minute silence during the morning service and we used the following prayer, written by the Bishop of Manchester.
Almighty God, we pray for all who, at this time, mourn Fiona and Nicola. We ask for your comfort and strength to be especially with their loved ones and colleagues.
And as we pray too for those who continue to be in danger from this violence, we give thanks for the constant courage, and devotion to duty, of the police, and all who take risks to protect our communities. May they be strengthened for the tasks they face and supported in the commitment they give, that they may further the well-being of all and enable our society to be loving, just and at peace.
We ask this in the name of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
To those who serve in the police force, we say "thank you" and you are in our prayers as you go about your daily job.
