Royal cancer - Firm Roots response
Charles and Kate announce cancer
In early 2024, both King Charles and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, sadly announced cancer diagnoses and subsequent cancer treatment. Both have faced this news with courage and dignity, offering their encouragement and comfort to others going through cancer. Their diagnoses highlight the shock and turmoil of a cancer experience, as well as an outpouring of support, and show us that nobody is exempt from the threat of cancer.
Christian response to cancer
With cancer statistics rising and an estimated 1 in 2 people in the UK having a cancer diagnosis at some point in their life, it is time to ask what the church can do to support this growing population. Most people within our congregations know someone affected by cancer or have experienced it themselves, yet Christian cancer support is uncommon in the UK, and there remains some uncertainty in knowing how best to offer support.
Cancer can either turn people away from God and faith, or draw them towards both. Reaching out to support people affected by cancer in prayer – as well as emotionally, practically and spiritually - is surely an outworking of God’s love and an opportunity for mission.
Thet’s why Firm Roots Cancer Support came into being. It is a small Christian organisation in the UK, offering prayer and spiritual support to people affected by cancer.
About Firm Roots
Firm Roots was started by Helen Jones in 2012, following her cancer diagnosis. Helen has worked in NHS cancer services for ten years and is now an ordained minister in the Church of England.
What we offer
Firm Roots runs a network of Cancer Prayer Support Groups and Christian Retreat Days for anyone affected by cancer, either as a patient or supporting someone through it. Several face-to-face cancer prayer support groups exist around the country as well as an online monthly cancer prayer support group.
Can you help us grow?
As Firm Roots looks to develop nationally, more churches are encouraged to think about starting a Firm Roots Cancer Prayer Support Group. You can find out more here.
The Firm Roots committee is also seeking people with relevant skills and experience to serve in various volunteer roles), to help drive national growth. Details here.