Churchgoers are being encouraged to put aside their differences after Brexit Day - when it arrives.

The Archbishops of Canterbury and York are inviting churches to join in a national prayer initiative of five days, and consider hosting a tea-and-prayer drop in session on or around Saturday, March 30.

The date was chosen as Britain was expected to leave the EU on March 29.

The aim is to bring together people of all standpoints on Brexit and encourage open discussions.

The Church of England has produced a set of prayer resources and some suggested conversation starters, as well as locally printable publicity materials and graphics that can be shared on social media.

Under the slogan ‘Together’, the packs include specially-chosen Bible passages, prayers and prompt questions to start conversations, including: ‘What effect has Brexit had in your family relationships, friendships etc and if you disagreed, has it been possible to disagree well?’

And ‘What are the three main things we have in common that we can build on for a better future as a community and as a nation?’

Introductory notes for those taking part urge respect for the integrity of differently held positions, encouraging communities which feel the same about the issues to use their imagination to consider the viewpoints of those who feel differently.

The packs also include flyers, graphics for social media, and invitations which can be personalised for local use.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said: “This is an opportunity for the Church of England to join together in prayer for God’s kingdom to come, and for the good of all in society.

“I hope that each of us will take hold of these resources to help us pray for our country at this critical time.”

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu said: “St Paul advises and urges Timothy to ‘offer petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone, for sovereigns, and for all in high office so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life, free to practice our religion with dignity. Such prayer is right, and approved by God our Saviour, whose will it is that all should find salvation and come to know the truth…’ (1 Timothy 2:2 ff). Beloved in Christ, let us also pray without ceasing.”

The resources are available at churchofengland.org/together.