NHS 70th BirthdayThe NHS came into being on 5th July 1948 thanks to the vision of Aneurin “Nye” Bevan, the health minister at the time, and others who worked hard to create a service for all people irrespective of wealth or status. The founding principles of the NHS remain the same 70 years on in that it continues to be funded from general taxation and free at the point of use.

Thanks and prayers

As we give thanks today let us celebrate the vision, courage and compassion of those behind the NHS 70 years on. And let us give thanks for those who continue to develop that vision in today’s NHS.

Let us pray for God’s grace and God’s blessing for all whose lives are touched by the NHS today.

We pray for doctors, nurses and all medical professionals that they may be granted knowledge, skill and compassion to comfort and care for those in need.

We pray for managers, administrators and ancillary workers who provide the infrastructure and support for all providing frontline services.

We pray for scientists and researchers who continue to develop new techniques and treatments in the never ending battle against illness and disease.

We pray for those who are ill and suffering that they may be comforted and supported in their time of trial.

And we pray for those who keep the vision of the NHS alive in our own day and into the future.

We make our prayers in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord who came to bring healing and wholeness to a suffering world.