Church hits winner with prayer

2006-06-07 13:16

London - The Church of England said on Wednesday it had proved a hit with football fans seeking divine intervention to help England win the World Cup after putting a prayer for the team on its website.

The church said it had scored more than 4 000 hits on the prayers section of its Internet site after posting the prayer last month for the likes of England captain David Beckham and his teammates.

A Church of England spokesman said this represented a 28% surge in hits compared to the average of the previous four months.

"The church often provides specially written prayers to mark major national events, and the World Cup is no exception," he said.

"After all, you don't find many atheists during penalty shoot-outs."

The prayer read:
"Lord God, the source of all life and joy, recreation and skill,
"we pray for all involved in the World Cup,
"and especially for those who represent our nation:
"for good health for the players,
"for high standards of sportsmanship and fairness,
"and for the safety and well-being of all who will watch,
"that in our shared enjoyment of the game,
"we may rejoice in the one who came to bring life in all its fullness,
"Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."

England kick off their World Cup campaign against Paraguay in Frankfurt on Saturday.

- AFP