As the summer months approach, a sense of excitement and anticipation fills the air in Norwich. For Matt Richards, pastor of Radical Church, this season presents a unique opportunity for the city’s churches to come together in unity and prayer. With a deep desire to see a move of God in Norwich, Matt is calling on Christians across the city to join him in a 40-day prayer and fasting initiative, set to take place from June 10th to July 19th, 2025. This heartfelt invitation is not limited to any one church or denomination, but rather extends to the entire body of Christ in Norwich, recognizing that, despite differences, there is only “one Church” in the city. Matt’s vision is to see this unified prayer movement spark a revival that will bring hope, healing, and transformation to the community.
Matt’s passion for his city is palpable, and his desire to see God move in a powerful way is contagious. He believes that the Holy Spirit is ready to bring about a significant shift in Norwich, and he is eager to partner with other churches and ministries to make this vision a reality. The 40-day prayer and fasting initiative is designed to be a collective effort, with different church congregations taking turns to pray for a move of God in the city on different days. This will be accompanied by joint outreaches in Chapelfield Gardens, where Christians can gather to praise and worship, evangelize, and share the love of God with the community. Matt’s enthusiasm is inspiring, and his invitation to “come and lift up Jesus in the park” is a beautiful expression of his heart for the city. By working together, Matt believes that the churches in Norwich can make a real difference and bring about a lasting impact that will be felt for generations to come.
As Matt explains, the vision for the 40-day prayer and fasting initiative is simple yet powerful. He is calling on churches to take part in three key ways: first, by participating in the prayer and fasting initiative; second, by taking an hour-long slot to lead praise and worship in Chapelfield Gardens; and third, by being involved in evangelistic outreach in the park. Matt’s emphasis on partnership and collaboration is clear, and he is eager to work alongside other churches and ministries to see this vision become a reality. He is not looking for financial support, but rather for people’s involvement and participation. As he puts it, “We need you. The city needs you.” This sense of urgency and desperation for God to move in the city is a powerful motivator, and Matt’s invitation is an opportunity for Christians to come together and make a real difference.
The planned outreaches in Chapelfield Gardens are a key part of the vision, with Matt having booked the bandstand on June 21st, July 19th, and August 2nd from 2 pm to 10 pm. These events will provide a platform for Christians to gather, praise and worship, and share the gospel with the community. Matt is looking for partners who will take an hour-long slot to lead worship, as well as those who will come and participate in the outreach. His enthusiasm is infectious, and his passion for the city is evident in every aspect of the vision. As he puts it, “Let’s believe for, pray for, and be part of a move of God in our city.” This sense of possibility and potential is exciting, and Matt’s invitation is an opportunity for Christians to be part of something bigger than themselves.
As Matt looks to the future, he is filled with hope and anticipation. He believes that the 40-day prayer and fasting initiative has the potential to bring about a significant shift in the city, and he is eager to see what God will do. His invitation to “revive Norwich” is a call to action, a reminder that the city needs the church to rise up and be the salt and light that it is called to be. Matt’s confidence in God’s power and presence is inspiring, and his faith is a powerful motivator. As he puts it, “Norwich will be saved,” a statement that reflects his unwavering trust in God’s goodness and love for the city. This sense of conviction and certainty is a powerful reminder that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we can ask or think, and that He is willing to move in powerful ways when His people come together in unity and prayer.
In the coming weeks and months, Matt’s vision for the 40-day prayer and fasting initiative will become a reality, and Christians from across the city will come together to pray, fast, and seek God’s face. As they do, they will be standing on the promises of God, trusting in His power and presence to bring about a move of God in the city. Matt’s invitation is an opportunity for the church to rise up and be the body of Christ, to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the city. As he puts it, “Can you fast and pray? Will you come?” These simple yet profound questions are an invitation to participate in something much bigger than oneself, to be part of a movement that has the potential to bring about lasting change and transformation in the city. For those who are interested in getting involved, Matt can be contacted on 07833498562 or at [email protected]. As the city of Norwich looks to the future, one thing is clear: the church has a vital role to play in shaping its destiny, and Matt’s vision for the 40-day prayer and fasting initiative is a powerful reminder of the potential that exists when God’s people come together in unity and prayer.
