A statement from Archbishop John Wilson on the Death of HM Queen Elizabeth II

The announcement of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is a cause of great sadness for her beloved family, for the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and all people of goodwill.

We give thanks to Almighty God for Her Majesty’s life of unfailing dedication and the outstanding example of Her Majesty’s service, faithful unto death.

As a devoted disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ, Her Majesty witnessed to the Gospel of God’s love for all people and worked tirelessly to strengthen harmony, to defend justice and to promote peace. We now pray for the repose of her soul, remembering the promise of Christ, who is the Resurrection and the life: ‘I am with you always, even until the end of time.’ (Mt 28:20) May Her Majesty rest in peace and rise in glory.

We pray for our King, for the Queen Consort and for all the Royal Family at this time of bereavement. We offer to them our deepest sympathy and condolence.

Let us also pray for our United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, grateful to God for Queen Elizabeth II’s remarkable life and selfless commitment to the promises she made at her Coronation. Her Majesty has been a part of all our lives and we shall miss her deeply.

We beseech you Almighty God, that your servant Elizabeth, who by your mercy received the government of this realm, and who dedicated her life entirely to the service of her people, may now rest from her labours in the peace of Christ which surpasses all understanding. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.