Abbey's service (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Abbey's service

Tewkesbury Abbey will be bathed in candlelight for this year's Epiphany Service.

And it will be taking on a particular poignancy in the wake of this year's Asian disaster.

It is traditionally lit with candles for this service, which marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men and the end of Christmas.

This year each of the chapels will have candles arranged to make pictures of the different people who work in the Abbey - such as the choristers, the servers and member members of the sewing guild.

Vicar, Canon Paul William said: "It is one of the most wonderful and exciting things I have ever seen."

The service, which takes place at 6pm on Sunday, January 9 will be attended by the Bishop of Gloucester the Rt. Rev Michael Perham.

In the aftermath of the South East Asia disaster he is encouraging churches across the diocese to stay open as much as possible to provide a place for people to pray for the victims of the tsunami.

Rev Perham has also issued a special prayer which is being used in all the churches both during services and on special cards for visitors who wish to pray whilst the churches are open

Tewkesbury Abbey will be open for prayers and gifts, with a special collection point at the rear of the church for donations to the Emergency Disasters Committee.

Donations can be also be left at the Abbey shop.