Christians in Northern Ireland are being urged to “prayerfully consider” their vote ahead of the elections.

Voters will be choosing between 200 candidates for the 90 Northern Ireland Assembly seats – a decision the Presbyterian Church is urging people not to take lightly. 

Congregations have also been urged to ‘pray that those elected will serve with integrity, generosity of spirit and with a commitment to the common good.’

In a joint letter to all of its congregations in Northern Ireland, the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI), Right Reverend Dr

David Bruce, and the denomination’s Clerk of the General Assembly, Rev Trevor Gribben, has encouraged ministers to pray for those standing for election within their services this week. 

The pair also highlighted the theological argument for voting, saying: ‘While it can be tempting to disengage with the local political process we are reminded in Scripture that the “authorities that exist have been established by God” (Romans 13:2) and are encouraged to make petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgiving for all people, including all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2).’

They are far from the first church or religious group to weigh in on the election in Northern Ireland; Catholic bishops are urging people to prioritise anti-abortion legislation when heading to the polls.