Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir perform special Epiphany service by author Frank Cottrell Boyce to raise funds for the St Vincent de Paul Society

The Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir, premiered a new work by author, screen writer and St Vincent de Paul Society member, Frank Cottrell Boyce, at Trafalgar Square’s St Martin-in-the-Fields, in a special evensong Epiphany service that happened on Saturday (6 January 2024).

The special piece – A The Love that moves the Stars: A Gospel Celebration for Epiphany – has been dedicated to the St Vincent de Paul Society (England and Wales), with all the collection funds going to towards the charity’s ‘More Than Kind’ Christmas appeal.

The St Vincent de Paul Society (England & Wales) is part of an international Christian voluntary network dedicated to tackling poverty in all its forms by providing practical assistance to people in need. Over the last couple of years, SVP have seen a dramatic increase in the number of people requesting help from volunteer members and at community support centres. All of the money raised from the More than Kind appeal will go towards helping those struggling with the rising cost of living, by offering support with debt, the provision of furniture, access to food banks, and with other everyday essentials.

Miko Giedroyc, co-founder and Trustee of the Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir, has been a supporter of the SVP’s work for many years, and praises the charity for the work they do.

He said: “I got to know the SVP via my brother-in-law and the local SVP Conferences in Kent where he lives. He persuaded me to have a closer look at the charity and I was blown away by the work that they do. The SVP provide an extraordinary grassroots service to the community and their work is truly incredible.”

Kenneth Madine, St Vincent de Paul Society, Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications, said that SVP were thankful for the support of both Frank Cottrell Boyce and the Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir.

“We are very grateful to Frank, who has been a member of the SVP since 2018, and the Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir for organising the event and for creating the piece for the Special Service.

“The money raised will go to our More than Kind Appeal and help support more people in need this Winter and beyond.”

Prayers and Reflections during the service were given by Revd Dr Sam Wells.