National Day of Prayer

All Saints Church, Leighton Buzzard c.1910 [Z1130/72/86]

Sunday 6th January 1918: A Royal Proclamation has declared that today is to be observed by the whole nation as a Day of Prayer and Intercession “that we may have the clear-sightedness and strength necessary to the victory of our cause.” Services are being held across the country not just by the Church of England, but also in Roman Catholic and Nonconformist churches and in Jewish synagogues. In some cases united services are being conducted by both Anglican and Nonconformist ministers, and special forms of prayer and thanksgiving issued by the Archbishops of Canterbury and York are being used. Collections are being taken at the services for the Red Cross Society.

The Chairman and members of Linslade Urban District Council walked in procession to the morning service at St. Barnabas Church, accompanied by the Volunteers, the Volunteer Band, the Police and Special Constables, and a number of discharged soldiers.  At Leighton Buzzard the King’s Proclamation was read from the altar steps at All Saints’ Church by the Vicar Rev. G. F. Hills. Public houses have closed voluntarily for the day.

Source: Leighton Buzzard Observer 8th January 1918; Bedfordshire Standard 11th January 1918