The life of Queen Elizabeth will be commemorated and celebrated at a multi-faith vigil in Leeds today (Sunday).
The eve-of-funeral event, which is open to the public, will be held on the Millennium Square steps directly in front of Leeds Civic Hall and will get under way at 6pm.
It will feature prayers and readings as well as the lighting of candles, one for each faith community taking part. The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Robert W Gettings MBE JP, will be among those speaking.
The event is due to last for around 45 minutes and will culminate with the lighting of the candles and a minute’s silence, ahead of the national moment of reflection for the Queen later that evening.
Representatives of a wide range of faith communities have been invited to attend, and younger people will play a prominent role in proceedings.
Organised by the Diocese of Leeds, Leeds Faiths Forum and Leeds City Council, the event is being hosted by the Bishop of Kirkstall, the Rt Rev Arun Arora.
The Bishop of Kirkstall, the Rt Rev Arun Arora, said: “On the eve of the Queen’s funeral we will gather together from our different traditions united in thanks for the life of the Queen.
“We will offer prayers of thanksgiving and commendation from faith communities from across Leeds representing people of faith from across the globe.
“We come together, young and old, with one voice to mourn, to grieve and to give thanks for a faithful life so well lived.”
The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Robert W Gettings MBE JP, said: “The Queen’s unifying presence in our local and national life means her loss has been keenly felt by many different communities across Leeds.
“Sunday’s multi-faith vigil will help those communities come together to remember Her Majesty and offer comfort to one another in this time of sadness.”
As previously announced by the council, coverage of the Queen’s funeral will be shown live on the Millennium Square big screen between 10am and 6pm on Monday. All are welcome to attend.
A Book of Condolence for The Queen is available at Civic Hall until 6pm on Tuesday. An online book will also be open until 6pm on Tuesday and can be signed here.
Organisations with their own Book of Condolence are being advised to keep it and archive it.