ODIHAM is due to host one of the major events as a part of a nationwide festival of prayer.

Large events will be taking place across the south east of England, including in Odiham, Overton, Winchester and Southampton for the Christian festival of Pentecost.

'Beacon' events will be held across Hampshire, marking the culmination of a 'wave of prayer' taking place across the country from May 30 to June 9 as part of 'Thy Kingdom Come.'

Supported by the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, Thy Kingdom Come is an annual opportunity for Christians to light up the world in prayer for the nine days between the Christian feasts of Ascension and Pentecost with candles that have been donated for the event.

Christians of all denominations across the Diocese of Winchester will be joining in this celebration of faith and prayer, which is taking place for the fourth time this year.

The 'Beacon' events have grown from their origin in Winchester Cathedral, with people across Hampshire taking up the Archbishops’ call. There will be at least seven major beacon events hosted by Christian communities in Odiham, Overton, Southampton, Lyndhurst, Eastleigh and Alresford.

Bishop of Winchester, right reverend Tim Dakin, said: "Our annual celebration of Pentecost is an exhilarating moment when we gather in prayer and are thankful for the ever present gift of the Holy Spirit.

"Every year I am overwhelmed by the stories of people who receive faith in Christ for the first time, and I am sure that this year will be no different.

"It’s a mark of how inspiring the festival is that this year it has grown to more locations across the Diocese."

The 'Beacon' event will be taking place at All Saints Church, in The Bury on June 9.