Prayer for the Day

by Revd Canon David White

11th October 2026 - 19th Sunday after Trinity

Heavenly Father,
whose Son visited humankind in all its suffering and need,
and went about doing good;
inspire with your love and compassion
those engaged in social work in this district.
Encourage them when the tasks seem overwhelming.
Give them wisdom when situations seem insoluble.
Challenge them when they are tempted to pass by on the other side,
and help them to show their love for you
by their love for their neighbour.  Amen.

This intercessory prayer by Canon Michael Botting is for all who are engaged in ‘social work’. This includes a range of public or private programmes to assist those who are disadvantaged, vulnerable or distressed. Social workers provide essential support for individuals and families and, when the circumstances require it, will intervene to protect those who are most vulnerable (e.g. a child or elderly person). It can be difficult and demanding work which provides a ‘safety net’ for many in society who struggle with basic living.

Michael Botting was a parish priest all his working life, at Fulham, Leeds and Chester. When in Leeds he was vicar of St George’s Church in the city centre, from 1972 to 1986. In 1930 the church had started what became known as St George’s Crypt, a soup kitchen for destitute and homeless men. Its work continues to this day and now provides emergency accommodation for men and women who are homeless or rough sleeping.

Michael would have been influenced by this social service run at his church and seen first hand the work of social services. Please pray for all social workers and all social services whose work is modelled on the concern Jesus had for those in need - and pray also for those they help and support.