Prayers for brand spanking new Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer after Labour landslide

Prayers are being said for the following government and the UK’s latest Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer after Labour’s landslide victory in Thursday’s general elections. 

The voting map turned red as Labour won seat after seat in a punishing night for the Conservatives after 14 years in powers.

The Lib Dems, Reform UK and the Greens also made gains, and Nigel Farage was celebrating after becoming an MP for the primary time together with his win in Clacton.

Outgoing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak won his seat at Richmond and Northallerton but many Tory bigwigs were among the many casualties, including Penny Mordaunt, Grant Shapps, Liz Truss and Jacob Rees-Mogg. 

Speaking after Labour’s victory, Sir Keir said, “We did it. Change begins now.”

A lot of Christian MPs have lost their seats within the Tory wipeout, including Miriam Cates who was an outspoken advocate for pro-life and traditional Christian values, Nick Fletcher in South Yorkshire, former Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, Fiona Bruce, and Second Church Estates Commissioner, Andrew Selous.

It was also a disastrous night for the SNP in Scotland after the party managed to carry onto only 10 seats as Scottish Labour swept to its first victory in a national election within the country for 14 years.

The Tories held onto South West Devon but its former incumbent and Chair of Christians in Parliament, Sir Gary Streeter, has retired after greater than 30 years in politics.

Commenting on Labour’s win, Gavin Calver, CEO of the Evangelical Alliance, said: “I’m praying for Sir Keir Starmer and his incoming government following the Labour Party’s success in the overall election. The scale of the victory represents a major change for UK politics but additionally comes with a major burden of responsibility.

“I’m praying the words of Psalm 72 that, God will give him wisdom and a heart for justice, that he’ll arise for the poor and for kids in need.

“The Evangelical Alliance is committed to working with the federal government on restoring hope in our society, strengthening social cohesion and honouring the dignity and value of each human being. Our faith is an important component of what makes a difference and helps transform lives across the UK.” 

He urged the brand new prime minister to appoint a Special Envoy for International Freedom of Religion or Belief “as soon as possible”, and encouraged the following government to “meet with evangelical churches and national organisations to know the vast contribution we’re already making day-after-day for those in best need”. 

“There can be points within the years ahead where we’ll disagree with the federal government’s direction and can challenge policies and decisions,” he said.

“Any moves that disempower and harm essentially the most vulnerable in society can be met with a sturdy response from the evangelical Christians across the UK. Our heart is at all times to serve and advocate for those most in need and we urge the federal government to do the identical.”

Ross Hendry, CEO of Christian charity CARE, called on the following UK government to model justice, integrity, and compassion.

“We congratulate all those that have been elected today, and Keir Starmer as he prepares to guide a latest Government. CARE encouraged churches to have interaction positively in the course of the election period and Christians will proceed to wish for and encourage MPs,” he said.

“As someone who has run for parliament up to now, I’m conscious that 1000’s of candidates didn’t hear the news they wanted today. Some people at the moment are out of a job. Losing candidates deserve our thanks and respect for collaborating.”

He continued, “Christians imagine that Governments are ordained by God to restrain evil and injustice and promote good by commending those that do right. An excellent Government will show justice and mercy, model integrity, and have compassion on essentially the most vulnerable people in society.

“We imagine there may be a greater story to inform for all people and particularly the vulnerable groups we advocate for, and we can be engaging with politicians of each party who share our desire to understand positive change. We hope to see politics renewed and lives transformed within the years ahead.”

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said he was praying for Sir Keir as he enters 10 Downing Street. 

“My warmest congratulations to our latest Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and my prayers for you and your loved ones as you’re taking on this role of great responsibility for our country,” he said.

“I thank Rishi Sunak and the outgoing Government for his or her service. I also give thanks today for our democracy, and for the peaceful and orderly transition of power it gives us.

“I pray for our latest government entering office; for its members to have humility, wisdom and integrity as they start their latest roles.”