The death of Queen Elizabeth II

Buckingham Palace announced the death of Queen Elizabeth II this afternoon. She died peacefully with her children present.

She was the UK’s longest serving monarch, at 70 years.

Her eldest son, Charles, becomes King Charles III, and the head of state for 14 Commonwealth realms. He said the death of his mother was “a moment of great sadness”.

As we mourn the loss of our Queen, we take comfort that she trusted Christ as her Saviour and is now in his glorious presence. The Queen recently wrote to the Lambeth Conference of Anglican Bishops sharing that throughout her life the ‘message and teachings of Christ have been my guide… And in them I find hope. It is my heartfelt prayer that you will continue to be sustained by your faith in times of trial and encouraged by hope in times of despair.’

Her reign saw much political and technological change, but she has remained a constant figure, always reassuringly present.

We grieve with her family in their sorrow. We pray for her family to know God’s comfort and guidance.

We give thanks to God for such a consistent and honourable public servant and head of state.

And we pray that our country may be led by a head of state and indeed ministers of government who likewise submit to the higher authority of God.

At this time of political change and financial uncertainty may God turn many hearts to Jesus as the King who lives forever.

God save the King!