Christians in York of various denominations, including many Roman Catholics, took part in the Global Day of Prayer on Pentecost Sunday (31st May) by praying on their city’s ancient walls. York’s walls were first constructed by the Romans and have been rebuilt over the centuries. Three quarters of the medieval walls still survive and make an excellent two and a half mile walk-way around the city centre.

Hundreds of participants – including many of York’s Catholic parishes and religious communities – began by facing inwards towards the city centre, praying for God’s blessing on York and all towns, remembering especially those in industries and public services. After five minutes the Minster bell rang as a signal for participants to turn round, looking beyond the walls to pray for God’s blessing on our communities and nations, families, friends, colleagues, and the disadvantaged. Finally participants prayed for a further five minutes facing up towards heaven, asking God to pour out the Holy Spirit upon the Church, giving wisdom, energy, discernment, and unity to Christ’s people. The event was coordinated by the ecumenical organisations Churches Together in York and One Voice York. The gathering received backing from City of York Council and was attended by York’s Lord Mayor and his civic party.

The Global Day of Prayer (www.globaldayofprayer.com) began in South Africa in 2000 and now unites millions of Christians around the world in praying for God’s kingdom to be built up on earth, inspired by the Bible text: “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and turn from their wicked ways and seek my face, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).