The church says more than 4,000 people have accessed the prayers section of its internet site, after posting the prayer last month for the likes of English captain David Beckham and his team-mates.
That’s a 28 percent surge in hits, "The church often provides specially written prayers to mark major national events, and the World Cup is no exception," A Church spokesman said. "After all, you don't find many atheists during penalty shoot-outs."
The prayer reads:
"Lord God, the source of all life and joy, recreation and skill,
“we pray for all involved in the World Cup,
“and especially for those who represent our nation:
"for good health for the players,
“for high standards of sportsmanship and fairness,
“and for the safety and well-being of all who will watch,
“that in our shared enjoyment of the game,
"we may rejoice in the one who came to bring life in all its fullness,
"Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."