Kent County Council has voted to reintroduce the Lord’s Prayer at the beginning of council meetings for the first time since 1987. The proposal, backed by the Reform UK-controlled authority, passed narrowly, with councillors also voting to close meetings with the national anthem. Supporters described the move as a recognition of Britain’s Christian heritage and values, with council leader Linden Kemkaran calling the Lord’s Prayer “a profound unifier” that should replace a proposed silent reflection period. Critics argued the decision failed to reflect Kent’s diverse communities, with some councillors and secular groups describing it as divisive or outdated. However, supporters insisted the prayer was not about exclusion, but about acknowledging the nation’s historic roots and moral foundations. Similar moves have recently taken place in other Reform-controlled councils, while some authorities elsewhere have removed prayers from official proceedings entirely. The debate highlights continuing tensions around faith, public life, and national identity in modern Britain. For many Christians, the decision is being welcomed as an encouraging public recognition of faith within civic leadership and governance.