Politics is tough. Anyone who wants to get elected, locally or nationally, has to seem thick-skinned and determined.

Politicians face criticism and abuse from all sides and live in a glasshouse of public scrutiny and challenge. And yet, thank God, talented women and men still compete to hold elected office.

Unpopular though this view may be, I’d like to speak up for our MPs, MEPs and councillors and all who seek to work for the common good.

From parish councillors to members of the European Parliament, we rely on the people we elect to work for our good and to speak for us. We can easily take them for granted.

That’s why we at St Leonard’s, Sandridge, wrote to our two local MPs following the General Election and assured them of our prayers in the months and years ahead. We were not making any statement of political support.

Rather, we assured them, we would be praying for them as ‘real life’ flesh-and-blood people, balancing the pressures of Westminster politics with family responsibilities, and trying to maintain a personal life.

We would pray, we said, that they have wisdom, stamina and integrity to face the challenges ahead and make wise decisions. Specifically, we would pray that they serve the needs of their constituents to the best of their ability.

Both MPs responded warmly and with appreciation. I’m not sure if they receive too many letters promising them prayer. Maybe they should receive more…

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Readers who submit articles must agree to our terms of use. The content is the sole responsibility of the contributor and is unmoderated. But we will react if anything that breaks the rules comes to our attention. If you wish to complain about this article, contact us here