A Footballing Prayer...

God of all Nations,

May we be blessed with the gifts of a footballing team.

As goalkeepers may we keep out the fierce shots of prejudice, racism and greed, saving others from the penalties of poverty and disease.

Working together as a strong back four, may we defend the goal of fullness of life for the oppressed and vulnerable.

Grant us the versatility and stamina of midfielders that we may go wherever we are needed to support those in trouble.

Give us the creativity and vision of wingers, providing passes of encouragement to those who can make fairer laws and crosses of hope to those in despair.

When we are strikers, may integrity, justice and compassion be the goals we should score.

And when we are on the subs bench, keep us faithful, cheering on others and inspiring them with fresh belief and energy when we are called to put on our boots.

God of all our hopes and all our excitement may this World Cup see new frienships made, old hatreds dismantled and the richness and diversity of life celebrated by all people whatever the colour of there shirt.

And may the best team win!

Amen.

This world cup prayer is by Lynne Chitty who is a lay assistant at Gloucester Cathedral.