A candlelit Vigil is to be held in York Minster on Sunday 27th February for all those missing and to mark the 37th Birthday of Claudia Lawrence, the York chef who has been missing for nearly two years.

Claudia Lawrence

 

The informal procession will be led by Kate McCann, mother of missing Madeleine McCann and Peter Lawrence, father of missing Claudia Lawrence.

The procession will begin from the Mansion House, St.Helen's Square at 2.30 pm, entering the West Doors of the Minster at 2.45 pm for the short Vigil at the High Altar where candles will be lit. Both the Archbishop of York,  Dr John Sentamu and the Dean of York, The Very Revd Keith Jones will officiate.  

Peter Lawrence and Kate McCann lead procession to York Minster

Peter Lawrence, Claudia's father, who has searched tirelessly for her and is a member of the York Minster congregation, said "This continues to be a tragedy for all of us who care about and love Claudia but I want this Vigil, not to be just for her, but for others missing, their  relatives, friends and the general public who have been so kind in their support."

The Archbishop of York said, "I hope many people will join us at the Vigil and hold in prayer the families and friends of Claudia Lawrence, and all those who have gone missing as we remember them in our thoughts and prayers."

Peter Lawrence and Kate McCann at Vigil

The Dean of York said, "Through the ages, York Minster has been a focus for pilgrims and others on their journey. I am looking forward to welcoming all those coming for this Vigil for the Missing and hope they find peace and support whilst they are in this holy place."

Martin Dales, Peter Lawrence's friend and spokesman, said, "It is also hoped that even if people can't physically make it to York, they will join us at 2.45 pm from wherever they are and have their own personal silence for Claudia and all those Missing."