Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
It is with a deep and profound sense of sadness that we, as a church, join in the praises and condolences at the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her life was extraordinary in so many ways; her sense of duty, not just to her own people but the whole world, was unwavering.
Her faithful Christian witness was inspirational, as Archbishop Justin Welby said, “Her trust in God and profound love for God was foundational in how she led her life – hour by hour, day by day."
The Queen has been a constant, steadying presence in the background of millions of lives for 70 years, a reassuring voice in troubled times. A solid, steadfast symbol of this country, this Commonwealth and this Church, and her passing will be keenly felt.
Her life was spent serving others in humility, hope, discretion and wisdom. This is something that we can all learn from.
A Collect for Her Majesty the Queen
O God, the maker and redeemer of all mankind, grant us, with thy
servant Queen Elizabeth and all the faithful departed, the sure
benefits of thy Son’s saving passion and glorious resurrection; that in the
last day, when all things are gathered up in Christ, we may with them
enjoy the fullness of thy promises; through Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord,
who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one
God, world without end.
May she, with all faithful pilgrims, rest in peace and rise in glory.
God save the King.
Rev’d Mark
Church opening times
St James, Great Horwood: Please check the Great Horwood Facebook page or the Parish Noticeboard for arrangements for observing some time and prayer for Her Majesty the Queen.
St Laurence, Winslow: We will be open from 8am until 5pm every day from Friday 9 September for prayer and reflection. A book of condolences and a place for the lighting of candles will be available in the Memorial Chapel of the church.
St Mary’s Addington: We will be open from 10am until 5pm every day from Friday 9 September for prayer and reflection. A book of condolences will be available in the church.
This week
Sunday 11 September
9.30am - Parish Eucharist with prayers for Her Majesty the Queen, St Laurence
11am - Parish Eucharist with prayers for Her Majesty the Queen, St James'
6pm - Choral Evensong in memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, St Laurence
Tues 13 & Thurs 15 September
9am - Zoom Inn prayer with a chat - email for details
Wed 14 September
12pm - Midweek Communion, St Laurence
Please note: The Repair Cafe will not run this month.
A Prayer for Her Majesty the Queen
Gracious God, we give thanks
for the life of your servant Queen Elizabeth,
for her faith and her dedication to duty.
Bless our nation as we mourn her death
and may her example continue to inspire us;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
