Though we speak the same language, there are some Britishisms that just don’t translate over here. For instance, I recall covering the Lambeth Conference last summer, when a Brit would suggest that an issue be “tabled,” which, over there, means brought up for discussion, not momentarily set aside.

The Church of England’s two new prayers “to comfort people made redundant” by the economy brings this to mind. To them “redundant” means laid off, or “no longer needed.” That seems a bit harsh to American ears, since redundancy connotes uselessness over here.

Anyway here it is the “Prayer on being made redundant”

‘Redundant’ – the word says it all –

‘useless,

unnecessary,

without purpose,

surplus to requirements.’

Thank you, Heavenly Father, that in the middle of

the sadness,

the anger,

the uncertainty,

the pain,

I can talk to you.

Hear me as I cry out in confusion,

help me to think clearly,

and calm my soul.

As life carries on,

may I know your presence with me

each and every day.

And as I look to the future,

help me to look for fresh opportunities, for new directions.

Guide me by your Spirit,

and show me your path,

through Jesus, the way, the truth and the life. Amen.