Church leaders from across Winchester joined MP Steve Brine in Westminster today (Tuesday 14 June 2016) for a special breakfast event.
The National Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast, which is organised by Christians in Parliament, is an annual opportunity for Parliamentarians and their guests to gather for a variety of speeches, music and prayer.
Joining Mr Brine this year were Revd Phil Collins from Alresford, Nigel Hemming of the Winchester Vineyard Church and Revd David Rowe from Christ Church.
Steve said; "Westminster Hall has been closely involved in the life of our nation since the 11th century so it's always special to be in there let alone see it transformed into a huge place of worship. This is an important event in the Parliamentary year and a chance to hear from some really interesting speakers on the key issues of our time. It's always a thrill for me to welcome guests to Westminster but it was extra special to have three of the best known church leaders from my constituency here with me this year."
Nigel Hemming from Winchester Vineyard Church, who also chairs Winchester Churches Together added; "It was a privilege to attend the National Prayer Breakfast at Westminster with Steve Brine and other local church leaders today. The event brought ministers and other active Christians together with MP's to reflect on how our faith inspires us to bring hope and transformation to the communities we serve. I'm so grateful for vision and values which we share as we together seek the welfare of Winchester and its surrounding communities."
More than 700 people attended the event, held in the ancient Westminster Hall, which was addressed by Bishop Angaelos of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the UK on the subject of the Church in the Middle East and attended by Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury.
Pictured; Revd Phil Collins (Rector of The Arle Valley Benefice, Alresford), Steve Brine MP, Nigel Hemming (Winchester Vineyard Church) and Revd David Rowe (Vicar at Christ Church, Winchester).
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The Coptic Orthodox Church in the UK