London: prayerline launched in Soho

A telephone prayerline has been launched in the heart of London's red light district. Posters and cards being distributed in the area proclaim: 'SOS Prayer - Because nothing is impossible to God. Here to prayer for you!' Based at St Patrick's church in Soho Square, callers will find a sympathetic ear and someone who can pray with them. "It's a bit like the Samaritans, but with a focus on the spiritual dimension," said parish priest Fr Alexander Sherbrooke. "We listen, we pray and usually read a piece of scripture," he explained. Staffed by trained volunteers, working from a chapel where the Blessed Sacrament is exposed, 'SOS Prayer' - on 020-7434 92111- is open from 7-11pm seven days a week.