The Bishop of Dover has paid tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh


Rose Hudson-Wilkin wrote:

Dear sisters and brothers, 

It is with great sadness that I heard the news today that Prince Philip has passed away. May he rest in peace and rise in glory. 

His was a life well lived. A consort, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, elder statesman… Although out of the public gaze for some time since stepping back from public duty, one cannot think of Her Majesty without thinking of the lifelong companionship that they shared – and the support he gave to her and the nation over the years.

A special memory I have of him was when I was received at Buckingham Palace as one of Her Majesty’s chaplains – I recall him joking with my girls. I will hold Her Majesty and her extended family in my prayers as they mourn the loss of his Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh.

A statement from Archbishop Justin can be read online here

Many of you will be keen to understand how your churches can support our local communities during this time. Flags around the diocese should now be flown at half-mast during the period of mourning. Obviously, we are still in the middle of a pandemic, so any change in activities taking place in church buildings or grounds should be subject to risk assessment – and should only be carried out if you are confident that you can comply with all national Coronavirus guidance and best practice. A national online book of condolence is available here

The Resource Hub on AChurchNearYou.com will be updated with resources for local churches. 

A special prayer from the Church of England follows: 


God of our lives,
we give thanks for the life of Prince Philip,
for his love of our country,
and for his devotion to duty.
We entrust him now to your love and mercy,
through our Redeemer Jesus Christ.
Amen.

With blessings, 

Rose Hudson-Wilkin
The Bishop of Dover

By Ed

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