Archbishop Prays for Captive Waite

LONDON — The Archbishop of Canterbury led Britain in prayer today for the release of his envoy, Terry Waite, “a beacon of light” who disappeared one year ago while trying to win freedom for hostages in Lebanon.

The simple but moving 15-minute special prayer service by Church of England head Robert A. K. Runcie was held in the stone crypt chapel of Lambeth Palace, headquarters of the church, where a candle has been burning continuously since Waite disappeared. Waite’s wife, Frances, and 25 family members and friends attended.