The British Empire once covered a quarter of the globe and the British Navy “ruled the waves” Throughout the twentieth century the empire dissolved and Britain has made the uncomfortable adjustment from a world power to a reluctant European nation. Conflict in Northern Ireland, between the Irish and the British, has been brewing for hundreds of years. Thirty years of guerrilla violence have made the process of finding peace difficult.

The United Kingdom is a union of countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The British press have an obsession with celebrities and are infamous for being intrusive and sensationalist. World dominating Spice Girl and world-class footballer, Posh and Becks, are the celebrity couple of the moment.

In general church numbers are declining, but some newer models of church are seeing growth.

Britain’s suicide and teenage pregnancy rates are among the highest in Europe.

In the last 200 years Britain has made a unique contribution to world mission. Now Britain is the country in need of missionaries! Pray that British churches would be fired up again about reaching new generations across the world.

London is one of the world’s most strategic cities; what happens in London influences the world through the media, the arts and finance. Pray that Christians can bring God’s influence into all these levels of society – and change the world!

Britain is becoming more multicultural – it is home to the largest number of Bangladeshis outside of their homeland. Pray that Christians can reach out to the needs of Britain’s growing ethnic minorities.

Pray for peace in Northern Ireland. Pray that both Protestant and Catholic Christians can demonstrate God’s forgiveness and reconciliation in their communities.