Further information and resources can be found on the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales website.
Observed each year on the Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Easter, this day invites the faithful to stand in solidarity with those who have suffered abuse, to pray for healing, and to recommit to making our communities places of safety and compassion.
In 2026, the focus turns particularly to domestic abuse, described as a scourge that instils fear and prevents individuals from living the fullness of life that Christ intends.
Rooted in the Gospel words, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10), the theme highlights the stark contrast between God’s desire for human flourishing and the destructive reality of abuse.
The Bishops’ Conference draws attention to the profound harm caused by domestic abuse, not only physical danger but also emotional, psychological and spiritual wounds. Abuse can erode a person’s sense of dignity and even disrupt their relationship with God and the Church, leaving victims isolated and burdened by shame.
Statistics underline the urgency of this issue. In the UK, a woman is killed by a partner or former partner every five days, and many more suffer in silence.
This Day of Prayer is not only about awareness but about action and conversion. The Church is called to be a safe haven, where survivors are listened to, supported and accompanied on their journey towards healing.
Parishes are encouraged to make use of resources provided by the Bishops’ Conference, including homily notes and Prayers of the Faithful, to help communities engage meaningfully with the day.
Initiatives such as Safe in Faith, developed by Caritas Westminster, offer practical tools and spiritual resources shaped by the lived experiences of survivors. These include prayers written by survivors themselves, giving voice to their pain, resilience and hope.
The National Day of Prayer also builds on ongoing work within the Church to listen to survivors and respond with compassion. Projects such as Listening with Love provide opportunities for reflection and deeper understanding within parish groups.
Across dioceses, the day is an invitation to pray for all who have suffered abuse, acknowledge the lasting impact of harm within families and communities, renew commitments to safeguarding and care, and ensure that Church communities are places where all can feel safe and valued.
While the reality of abuse is deeply painful, the Day of Prayer points firmly towards hope. It reminds us that healing is possible, that dignity can be restored, and that the Church must continue to walk alongside survivors with humility and love.
For the Diocese of East Anglia, this day offers a vital opportunity to unite in prayer, to listen more attentively, and to strengthen our commitment to safeguarding. In doing so, we witness to the Gospel promise of life in abundance, a promise that must be made real for every person, especially those who have suffered most.
