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Launching Prayer Line in prison

People in prison who want to be prayed for or who want to remotely join worship services will have the option of dialling in using two new phone services launching on Friday 31st July.

Prayer Line is run by Prison Fellowship and HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS). Daily Hope is a free phone line of hymns, reflections and prayers organised by the Church of England. These free services are paid for by the providers.

Prayer Line is a new service from Prison Fellowship and it allows anyone in prison to call a free number and leave a confidential message with their personal prayer request. Prison Fellowship’s team of volunteers is committed to pray for each person that calls on that day and through the following month. It is as simple as that, and there are no catches!

“Some of the most fervent prayers are said from prison cells,” says Ven. James Ridge, Chaplain General at HMPPS. “For over 40 years Prison Fellowship has enabled countless prisoners to know that someone is sharing in those prayers. This new initiative enables a more active and immediate participation – prisoners can know that their concerns are being shared safely and confidentially by faithful, prayerful Christians. This is a wonderful facility that will remind prisoners that they are loved by God and that His Church is praying with them and for them.”

At this especially difficult time, Prison Fellowship is thrilled to have the backing of HMPPS Chaplaincy and Faith Services to support men and women in prison in this way. The launch of Prayer Line coincides with the introduction of the Church of England’s Daily Hope phone service in prisons.

Daily Hope offers music, prayers and reflections as well as full worship services from the Church of England at the end of a telephone line. It was originally launched in April 2020, with those unable to join online church services during the period of restrictions in mind. Now that phone line is being made available inside prisons too.

The expectation is that both these new offerings will strengthen the vital work of prison chaplains caring for the spiritual and pastoral needs of those in prison.

Peter Holloway, Prison Fellowship’s CEO, says, “We know and expect that this lockdown has taken its toll on those inside, and we are ready and prepared to support men and women in their journey towards healing and restoration. Prayer Line is one key way we can do this, standing alongside them with deep trust that their loving Heavenly Father hears every prayer.”


Download the Press Release, or visit the new Prayer Line web page for more information. 

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