The Church of England is supposed to be the church for everybody, in every community, where every single person is welcomed and affirmed as a beloved child of God. It has let you down. The Makin Report and the Archbishop’s resignation show the extent to which people who had the power to protect and empower others failed to do so. Slowly, far too slowly, it is changing for the better, though.At Crockham Hill and Westerham the churches are open daily for personal prayer and provide quiet space when you need it. Please feel free to come in and say a prayer for anybody you know who has been harmed by abuse, whether through the church or in some other way. Whoever you are, and whatever life looks like for you, you are welcome here. If you can’t, or don’t feel able to, come into church then we hope that the following prayers might offer some comfort. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have concerns for, or about, somebody associated with the church – past or present - or you have things you wish to talk about yourself.~~~~~~~~~~~Dear God, It is with grief and sorrow that we confess that churches that should be filled with your love and light have, for some, been places of pain, fear or suffering. We pray for all those who have suffered hurt and harm within the Church. For those who feel trapped, grant them a way of escape. For those whose lives have been destroyed, who feel pain and confusion, we ask for healing and wholeness.For those mistreated by people who they should have been able to trust, we ask that you surround them with others who will faithfully minister with love and kindness.For those who seek justice, we pray that you will give them strength and make their voices heard.Help us, loving Lord, to be advocates for all who have been abused or mistreated and to fully commit to ensuring that churches are safe places. We pray especially that people will feel safe and welcome at our churches in Westerham and Crockham Hill, whatever their background or situation. Amen~~~~~~~~~A survivor’s prayer, written by Cerys Morgan a victim and survivor of church-based abuse: Father, thank you that as your church you entrust to us your work here on earth.We pray that through your Spirit, you will empower us to do the right thing for the benefit of those suffering abuse and injustice.That we will not fear to be bringers of your justice. That we will be your voice for those whose voices are silenced.That when your light shines into dark areas of abuse we will have courage as your representatives, to face our fears, and to show forth your heart of compassion and justice, and to speak your words of life and freedom into broken hearts.Teach us as a Church to be your body fully knitted together and working in unity. To care for one another with extra care and dignity.Enable us to be instruments of your love, that chains will be broken and broken hearts restored.That we will teach everyone how precious they are to you. That they will know you are a God who sees and feels their pain.We pray that through your Spirit and your church fully trusting in your word, victims will become victors and their mess become a precious message to your love and restoration in their lives. We ask this in your name and for your glory. Amen
