Vigil of Light

The vigil is being spearheaded by the Churches Trust and is running alongside the Carnival of Colours in St Columb’s Park and the One World Festival at Guildhall Square, with those two events being linked by the new bridge for the first time. The Saturday celebrations will culminate in a firework spectacular and the official switch-on of Mute Meadow, a major new public art project for the city.

The first night of the new bridge represents a special moment for the city to come together, the Churches Trust said, adding: “The night-time is also a time to dream and a time to make a wish for our tomorrows. We want people to encounter an opportunity to make a wish for themselves, for the city, for the future.

Convening for two-hour shifts from 11.30pm the Saturday night, groups will act as a welcoming team and conduct the vigil overnight, culminating in a gathering with the leaders of the four main Churches in the city and other faith groups for a short service of dedication at 9am on Sunday.

Young people in the city are particularly welcome to attend the event and early morning service and take part in a ‘hands across the bridge’ symbol of friendship.

Joan Doherty, Director of the Churches Trust and chairwoman of the Trust’s City of Culture Working Group said: “This event will mark another step forward towards a shared future for all the people of our city. The Vigil of Light will give people the opportunity to reflect and meditate on the past, and look to the future. As the sun rises I sincerely hope that this unique occasion will be the dawn of a new era of peace, prosperity, hope and genuine friendship between us all. The joining of hands across the Peace Bridge after the Service will show to us all that we are united and going forward together”.

Pastor Brian Somerville, of Cornerstone City Church, who is helping co-ordinated the event, said: “The Vigil of Light represents an opportunity not only to acknowledge the history of our city but more importantly to be part of forming the future of it. By watching over our city’s newest arrival we can stand to face forward into a shared yet common hope of lasting peace, togetherness and influence.”

The Trust is looking for 70 volunteers or more to participate in the overnight vigil. Those interested in volunteering can contact the Churches Trust on 028 7131 1322 or e-mail [email protected]

Trustees: Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Ken Good; Bishop of Derry, Most Rev Dr Seamus Hegarty, Bishop of Derry; Moderator of Presbytery Derry and Donegal, Rev Dr Robert Buick, and the Superintendent of the Methodist Church, Rev. Peter Murray, Superintendent, Methodist Church.