ICF - Prayer Focus

Those who work in the provision of clothing

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Designers, manufacturers and suppliers of baby wear, footwear, maternity wear, work wear, wigs, belts, suits, separates, underwear, nightwear, wedding gowns, academic and preaching gowns, overcoats, oilskins, sweaters, hats, hosiery, neckwear, gloves, beachwear, party wear, corsetry, uniforms, jeans, bibs and aprons and fancy dress. Tailors and Shirtmakers, menders and dry-cleaners, Launderette staff and ironers, costumiers and theatre costume designers and wardrobe staff.

Our God who is clothed in majesty and splendour, Your Word reminds us that the beauty of the lilies of the field comes not through spinning or toil, but by Your all-providing hand. While we may be clothed in garments of our own making, help us to remember that the materials from which they are made, and that eye for their form that causes us to design and choose them, have their source in You. When our clothes protect us, help us also to place our security and hope in You; when our clothes identify us, help us also to remember that we are Your children; when our clothes adorn us, may we also seek the inner beauty of a character shaped by Your Spirit. Be present in the labours of all those who produce our clothing in all its forms, and in an industry that can so often be the cause of exploitation, help us to dress not simply with a mind for how we look, but also of justice to all people. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

Regular prayer for the world of work can be a significant feature in Sunday services. ICF seeks to provide a variety of resources to help those who prepare these. Prayer of this nature is important because:

  • It encourages Christians to see their working lives as part of their Christian Identity

  • It helps those involved in the world of work, particularly when their job makes it difficult to participate in church activities, to feel affirmed and valued.

  • It is a vital part of our intercessory responsibility to the community around us.

  • It communicates a faith that is relevant to real issues to those who visit our churches

Each week, we highhlight different groups of workers and encourage our members and followers to particularly pray for people who work in that sector. We also encourage local churches to include regular prayers for the world of work

As you pray, Consider what might be said in the context of thanksgiving, confession and intercession, both for the workers concerned and for those present.