News Archive - April 2021
Message from Joy - HRH Duke of Edinburgh
I was very sad to hear of the death of His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh. He lived a life of public service and support for Her Majesty The Queen and his Christian faith underpinned all that he did.
Bishop Alan has released the following press statement.
It is with great sadness that I received the news this morning that His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh has died. Please join me in prayer for His Royal Highness and for Her Majesty The Queen and other members of the Royal Family in their grief, and in thanksgiving for His Royal Highness's long and fruitful life of service.
His Royal Highness led life as a Naval Officer, as Consort to Her Majesty The Queen and as a father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
In service of the monarchy, he accompanied and supported Her Majesty The Queen both in this country and around the world, including many visits to the Diocese of St Albans. We are grateful to have welcomed him here.
Throughout his life, His Royal Highness was deeply involved with a large number of charities and is particularly well known for The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, which has influenced the lives of many young people. He was also an accomplished amateur artist, polo player, yachtsman and, later in life, he excelled at carriage driving.
He was a unique individual in our national life and a memorable character.
His Christian faith sustained him throughout his life, and we pray for him in the sure and certain hope of the resurrection to eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ.
May he rest in peace.
+Alan St Albans
Unfortunately, under the present law on Covid-19, physical condolence books in church are not permitted. If you would like to express your condolences, there is an online condolence book from the Church of England available here. In addition, there are prayers on the website for use at home.
The Royal Family has requested that donations to charity be given in lieu of flowers. But if you wish to leave flowers, please put them in the churchyard alongside the path from the Church Lane gate.
I am sure you will join me in praying for Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family at this time of grief and loss.
God of our lives, we give thanks for the life of Prince Philip,
for the love he shared among us, and for his devotion to duty.
We entrust him now to your love and mercy, through our Redeemer Jesus Christ. Amen.
Merciful God, be close to all who mourn,
especially The Queen and all members of the Royal Family.
May they know the hope of your promises and the comfort of your love,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
With every blessing,
Joy
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