It was with profound sadness that I heard the news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Like so many of us, I have only known one monarch for the whole of my life and her servant-hearted leadership and quiet but steadfast faith have been fixtures in our national life across several generations.
I will always be particularly thankful for her commitment to good relations on these islands. Such a commitment to reconciliation is at the heart of our ministry here in Down Cathedral where, like Anglicans across the UK, we remembered Her Majesty and all in authority each and every time we prayed the Daily Office.
Above all, Queen Elizabeth was a faithful servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. She took many opportunities, especially in her Christmas speeches, to speak of her faith and point others towards him. I hope and pray that hers will continue to be an example for Christians everywhere.
On behalf of the Chapter of Down Cathedral and our entire Cathedral Community I offer my deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to the whole Royal Family in their loss and in particular to His Majesty King Charles III for whose reign we will continue to pray.