WORSHIPPERS across East Lancashire are being urged to come together in prayer to help with the search for a new spiritual leader.

Congregations from across the county are being asked to attend a day of prayers on January 16 at Blackburn Cathedral, as the search for a replacement for the Right Rev Nicholas Reade continues.

Retiring from the post at the end of October, he was the eighth Bishop of Blackburn since the role was established in 1927.

Later in January the Crown Nominations Committee, which will decide upon the final nomination, will meet on two occasions, with an announcement expected in the spring.

A Blackburn Diocese spokesman said: “We want to surround them in our prayers so that the choice made is inspired by God, the Holy Spirit.”

Prayer stations will be set up around the cathedral, enabling people to pray alone or in groups, as they desire.

Bishop of Burnley, the Right Rev John Goddard, is currently undertaking the diocesan role in a caretaker capacity.

The cathedral will be open between 7pm and 9pm for the purpose, with worshippers able to come and go as they wish.

Diocese officials have also suggested a prayer, which is being made available via their website, www.blackburnanglican.org, that could be said. Those interested in finding out more are asked to get into contact with Archdeacon John Hawley at Church House.