The Rt Rev Nicholas Reade, the Bishop of Blackburn, will tell his congregation that they should pray for those who have "defaced God's image through their abuse and oppression of others".

The controversial comments – including some about Baby P, the toddler who died following months of abuse from his carers in London – will come in a Christmas morning service at Blackburn Cathedral.

The Bishop will urge parishioners to pray that child abusers will see the error of their ways and find religion.

His speech says: "We should pray on this great day that those who are abusers, those who cannot find it in their hearts to reflect the love and mercy of God in their lives, may somehow be brought face to face with the baby in the manger.

"For, be sure, the same baby that suffered alongside Baby P, and who now cares for him, is the baby who reveals the truth and grace of God – a God abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, in the past, today and always."

A spokesman for charity Victim Support, said: "It does come across as a slightly unusual theme.

"However, I am certain there will be some victims who, if they stopped to talk about it, probably would not have a problem with it – victims have diverse views.

"Victims want it to stop – they want people to stop offending. It is a matter of opinion whether praying will help stop it."

The Bishop's comments come as part of a sermon which calls for Christians to be more "realistic" about the meaning of Christmas.

The Bishop, whose Blackburn diocese includes the Preston area, will also ask for prayers for those who have lost jobs because of the economic downturn.

A spokesman for the Bishop, said: "The Bishop in his sermon is calling attention to the continuing presence of Christ in our troubled world, his love for all its victims and the need for Christians to pray for them, including the victims of child neglect, cruelty and abuse."

The service will begin at 10.30am.

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