Last evening, I was at St. Nicholas Church, Brighton for a meeting of Third Order Franciscans at which I was renewing my life vows as a professed member of the Order. It was at that service that the news came regarding the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The mood was sombre but somehow it was fitting that it was against the legacy of her own sense of responsibility to her vows as the Monarch that such a ceremony was being conducted. Her exemplary commitment to her duties as Queen, working virtually right up to the last moment, was an inspiration, whether one is a royalist or a republican. The image of her greeting yet another new Prime Minister two days before she died has become iconic.

For those of us for whom Queen Elizabeth II has been a constant throughout our lives up until now, even as prime ministers, presidents and other leaders came and went, as fortunes rose and fell, through war and peace, the impact of the loss of a stabilising presence will be felt deeply. 

Over the period of mourning that will lead up to Her Majesty’s funeral, the Meeting House will remain open and ready to receive those who may wish to come and sign books of condolence or simply spend some time in quiet reflection. Our books of condolence will be available in the Chapel and downstairs area. Sussex also has an online book of condolence.

Catholic Mass will be offered for Queen Elizabeth II at 12 noon today, Friday 9 September, in the Meeting House Chapel. May she rest in eternal peace.

Meanwhile, in the language of Her Majesty the Queen’s own faith and the Church of which she was titular head:

Rest Eternal grant unto her, O Lord
And let light perpetual shine upon her:
May she rest in peace
And rise in glory. Amen.

Chris McDermott
University Chaplain & Lead Faith Advisor