VICAR

Dear Readers of Country Squire Magazine I trust that You are all well and that You will be casting a glance at that rarest of spectacles this evening, an international football final in which England are participating.

There is nothing wrong with praying for Your team before or during a football match. I can assure You that the Italians will be, as will most of the rest of the world be praying that the Italians win, since England seem universally detested. Either which way one can pray for a good match and a sound referee.

I am reminded of how the Church of England failed to put its faith in England at the World Cup out in Brazil. The Church released a series of prayers for the tournament including one for the England football team which simply read ‘Oh God…’.

As for the Italians, let us pray that they have read 2 Timothy 2:5:

“An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.”

We do not want to see any writhing around in agony or play-acting as We saw from the Italians in the Belgium game.

I wish You a good match, a pleasant Sunday and a positive week ahead. God Bless You all. Enjoy the match!

Father in Heaven, We ask Your blessing on the game England are about to play. Give each one of the England team the courage to play the game in a manner, which by their words and actions, is pleasing to You. Let them enter into the match in a spirit of sportsmanship and with respect for members of the opposing team. Let the best team win.

Amen