Today Church leaders in Britain and Ireland have called on Christians to take part in a National Day of Prayer and Action about coronavirus.

People are invited to place a lighted candle in their window at 19:00 on Sunday “as a visible symbol of the light of life, Jesus Christ”.

The call encourages prayer for the Government, health-care workers, and those who are most vulnerable and also lists some actions that Christians might take; “Alongside your prayers, take the opportunity to telephone or email someone who is isolated, buy some additional food for your local foodbank, or offer to deliver shopping for an elderly neighbour.”