CAPTION: The Bishop of Exeter signs a book of condolence for HM The Queen in Exeter Cathedral
Bishop Says Death of The Queen is a Watershed Moment for Our Nation
The Bishop of Exeter has said the death of Her Majesty The Queen is an “extraordinary, watershed moment for our nation.”
Speaking as Exeter Cathedral bell tolled 96 times in memory of Queen Elizabeth, the Rt Rev’d Robert Atwell said “I find it so poignant standing here listening to the passing bell of the Cathedral.
“We mark her death as Christian people with a sense of hope, something that Queen Elizabeth embodied in her entire life, her faith in Christ.
“I pray for her – may she rest in peace and rise in glory.”
A St George flag flies at half-mast outside Alphington Church
Churches across Devon are open for prayer and for people to light candles and sign books of condolence.
Flags have been lowered to half-mast to mark the official period of mourning.
Many churches will be holding special commemorative services on Sunday 18 September, the day before HM The Queen’s state funeral on Monday 19 September.
There will also be a countywide civic service at Exeter Cathedral and a service in Torquay and Plymouth. These will all take place at 3pm on 18 September. There will also be a service in each district council area.
“In all the changing seasons and uncertainties of the decades, she has been a constant rock, pointing us to God, the Rock of ages, who is with us in our grief today.” Rev’d Preb. James Grier, Bishop of Plymouth-Designate
Wise Leader and Figurehead
The Bishop of Crediton, the Rt. Rev’d Jackie Searle, said “This is a time of the deepest sadness and sorrow as we collectively mourn the death of the Queen.
Churches are open for people to sign books of condolence
“She has been a faithful and inspiring monarch, living her life by her Christian values and exercising her authority from a place of deep faith and joyful service.
“She has been a most wise leader and figurehead, widely held in deep affection, not just here but all around the world.
“In the midst of our grief, we offer our thanksgiving to God for her long reign and exemplary life.”
The Bishop of Plymouth-Designate, the Rev’d Prebendary James Grier, who will be preaching at the Plymouth civic service, added: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of her Majesty the Queen.
“For the majority of us, she has been our only monarch. Prior to her coronation, she asked for prayer for the wisdom and strength to faithfully serve God and the people of her monarchy, all the days of her life. This is a prayer that has been well and truly answered since the mark of her reign and life have been faith and service.
“In all the changing seasons and uncertainties of the decades, she has been a constant rock, pointing us to God, the Rock of ages, who is with us in our grief today.”
[Ends]
