To kickstart a new online initiative, Junior Spence of Pray4Youth UK speaks about the current issues in the community, what needs to happen and the response needed from the community. The inter-denominational Christian prayer initiative leads a coordinated Church response, to the increase in knife and violent crime amongst young people in London.
Pray4Youth UK was founded in 2016 by Junior Spence – community Leader and Pastor of Faith City Church in Hackney. Their events have received widespread support from Church leaders of various denominations, local politicians, community leaders, members of the Metropolitan Police and diverse groups from the local community.
Additionally, they have created a space for Churches, individuals, former youth offenders and victim’s families to meet, share their experiences and unite in prayer for the transformation of our young people. Pastor Spence’s video statement can be read in full below:
“We have seen a rise in knife crimes in our communities, young people from the age of 13/14 years old being stabbed usually by the hands of another young person.
We have seen a number of youth going missing, whether it be voluntary or involuntary, young children and youth being abducted in our communities; a big number of youth dealing depression, suicidal thoughts and other mental illness.
A few weeks ago, we saw a number of our young gifted black footballers being severely racially abused on all social media platforms
What is the solution?
What are we prepared to do?
Along with the great work, community projects and mentoring that many of you are already doing, those who engage effectively and support our young people.
We salute you and appreciate you.
The Pray4Youth & Community Events is a time where churches, community leaders, youth and the whole community can come together in unity to ‘Pray4Youth’ and to encourage and uplift families and those who have lost loved ones or been affected through knife crime and violence.
Don’t be part of the problem, be the solution.
What are you prepared to do?“
Join them over the coming weeks as they invite various community leaders to pray for youth, pray for communities and pray for change. Connect with Pray4Youth on Facebook | Instagram || Subcribe on YouTube
