Recognising the power of prayer

Broadcast on 2CH Sydney, 14 Apr 2013

Church attendances may be declining in some parts of the world, and the “new atheism” has proved popular among those who want to appear smart and progressive, but a new survey in Britain has found no shortage of people believing in prayer.  The ICM survey examined issues on the hearts of British people, and which age groups were praying more than others.

Four out of five of those surveyed said they believed in prayer.  Most popular prayers were for world peace, an end to poverty, and healing.  Sixteen per cent said they prayed to express thanks to God, and 15 per cent said they prayed for divine guidance in life.  Other popular subjects were for prosperity, forgiveness and academic studies.

Of those aged over 65 years old, 89 per cent said they prayed, while three in four people aged 18-24 said they prayed.  Only 14 per cent said they never prayed.

The survey was commissioned by the Church of England.

I’m Rod Benson for the NSW Council of Churches.