Prayers for Pope in Southwark’s two cathedrals

An hour later prayers for Pope John Paul and those who will choose his successor were offered during the Choral Eucharist at the Anglican Southwark Cathedral.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, who is away from Lambeth Palace on his Easter visit to Canterbury, said: "Pope John Paul was a leader of manifest holiness and a faithful and prayerful friend of the Anglican Church.

"There will be time in the days ahead for the proper tributes to be paid; for now we remember his life and ministry with thankfulness and hold the church that he led in our thoughts and prayers."

• At St George's Cathedral there will be a service of Solemn Vespers to honour the Holy Father on Thursday 7 April at 6.45pm when representatives of other churches are being invited to attend.