Majority of Scots Believe in the Power of Prayer

Thursday July 17 2014

The Church of Scotland has welcomed findings which show widespread faith in the power of prayer throughout the country.

A joint report – titled The Faith and Belief Scotland Report published last week by the Scottish Government and the University of Edinburgh - found that a majority of respondents (57.6%) either “strongly agreed” or “agreed” with the statement that prayer can have a real effect in this world.

Rev Sally Foster-Fulton, Convener of the Church and Society Council of the Church of Scotland, described the findings as “refreshing” in an era where the role of faith in the public sphere is not as prevalent as it was in days gone by.

Mrs Foster-Fulton added: “Faith and prayer are not just a matter for the private sphere but have a real impact on the world around us.

“As the report suggests prayer comes from our acceptance that there still exist a number of things that are beyond our understanding and beyond our control.

“It is our desire to know the unknown and to engage with that which is bigger and beyond us that calls us to prayer, and whether it be prayer for a loved one or an awe-filled thanks for the beauty of creation, our dialogue with God has a profound impact not only on the world around us but also on each of us who live in it.

“As we reflect and engage with these things, both individually and corporately, we allow ourselves to be changed; to deepen and to grow. It is through this prayerful reflection that we learn more about ourselves, each other and our God and it is this continual dialogue that can create real change and have a real effect on this world.”

You can view the report here.

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