Justice Weekly: 10 September 2026
One in Five Living in Poverty
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s latest poverty report highlights that around one in five people in the UK are experiencing poverty, with many facing persistent challenges around income, housing and the rising cost of living. The report warns that poverty continues to limit opportunities and damages both individual wellbeing and wider society. At JPIT, we believe every person is made in God’s image and deserves the resources and opportunities needed to live well.
Pray for all struggling to make ends meet, for those experiencing hunger, debt or insecurity, and for decision makers to pursue policies that reduce poverty and enable communities to flourish.
Goods Restrictions from the Holy Land
The UK Government has announced measures restricting trade in goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories. The move comes amid continuing concern about the humanitarian and political situation in the region, and ongoing discussions around international law and the pursuit of peace. JPIT’s vision of peace is not simply the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, dignity and right relationships. As Christians, we are called to pray for peace while recognising the need for accountability, protection of civilians and respect for human rights.
Pray for all those affected by violence and displacement, for the bereaved and traumatised, and for leaders to work towards a just and lasting peace.
Public Attitudes Towards Immigration
A parliamentary report this week explored public attitudes towards immigration. It finds support both for investing in the domestic workforce and for ensuring migrants are treated with dignity, respect and fairness and are supported to integrate into community life. This is in stark contrast to news reports of protest groups along the south coast of England this week. JPIT has consistently advocated for a compassionate approach to migration and asylum and we are preparing to lobby MPs on a just system for refugees. Scripture repeatedly reminds God’s people to welcome the stranger and uphold the dignity of those who leave their homes in search of safety, opportunity or refuge.
Pray for migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, for communities receiving new arrivals, and for politicians to model honesty, compassion and wisdom and refrain from scapegoating in conversations about migration.
Climate Change Inquiry
Parliament has launched a major inquiry into how the UK should adapt to the growing impacts of climate change, examining how communities, infrastructure and public services can become more resilient in the years ahead. Caring for creation is central to JPIT’s hope for a renewed environment. Christians are called to partner in God’s world faithfully, ensuring that both present and future generations can enjoy the abundance of creation.
Pray for those already experiencing the effects of climate change, for scientists, policymakers and campaigners seeking solutions, and for the courage to make decisions that protect both people and the planet.
In Parliament this Week
Let’s also pray for Parliament as it returns after the summer recess. In the coming weeks, MPs and peers will be considering issues ranging from climate resilience and financial regulation to international development and migration. As JPIT seeks to encourage churches to engage faithfully in public life, we can remember all those entrusted with leadership and decision-making.
Pray for MPs, peers, civil servants and advisers, that they would act with integrity, seek the common good and pay particular attention to those whose voices are too often overlooked.
God of justice and hope,
help us to see your image in every person,
to care for your creation,
to seek peace where there is conflict,
and to build communities where all can flourish.
Give wisdom to those in authority,
courage to those working for change,
and compassion to your Church as we follow Christ in public life. Amen.