CHURCHGOERS across Dorset can join a global prayer movement this week to reconnect with their faith community during lockdown.

Thy Kingdom Come is an annual prayer event, running this year from Ascension Day today until Pentecost on Sunday. The event promotes prayer and care to create a better world for all and is supported by churches and churchgoers across the world.

Dorset Christians of all denominations are being urged to join in this year from home by downloading the free Thy Kingdom Come app, which offers videos, reflections and a daily podcast.

In Portland and Weymouth, there will be a 24/7 Prayer and Praise time on Zoom from 8am on Saturday, May 30 until 8am on Sunday, May.

Pastor Dave Farmer of Easton Methodist Church on Portland said: “This year, probably more than any other there is a great deal to think about and pray for. As we pray for, and with, others in Weymouth and Portland we will also want to thank God for his mercy and presence within the midst of this global pandemic.

“Whilst our churches are currently closed we, the church, continue to join together in virtual meetings and services. We are praying for those who are sick and suffering, for families and friends who have loved lost ones, for those who are isolated through age or illness and of course for all those who are supporting and helping others in so many different ways.

“Church members from churches across Weymouth and Portland have been praying in their own quiet times since last Thursday and joining in with daily online reflections. This Saturday from 8am until Sunday at 8am we are hoping that many more will join us in prayer for our communities, our nation and our world.

“Our 24 hours of prayer will be centred around an online Zoom meeting where people can join us in prayer if they wish. If people would rather pray alone in their own homes that’s fine as well and we would encourage them to let us know when they are praying so that we can phone them if they wish.”

Revd Nick Clarke, Team Rector of Radipole and Melcombe Regis, said: “This is a hugely challenging time when anxiety, fear, and tragedy seem close. However, so many people are exploring prayer and discovering that it brings not only comfort but genuine hope. It’s so exciting to see lots of members from different churches coming together to pray and seek God’s blessing on their community.”

Further information from Dave Farmer (dave@portlandmethodist.co.uk) and Cherry Clarke (cherry.clarke600@gmail.com)