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The Death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II Commemoration and Thanksgiving for the life of the late Monarch

9 Sep, 2022

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Following the announcement yesterday of the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II at the age of 96, York Minster has confirmed the arrangements for people to visit the cathedral for prayer, reflection, to lay floral tributes and to sign the Books of Condolence in memory of the late Queen.

The Acting Dean of York, The Revd Canon Michael Smith said:

“This week, York Minster will help the people of the city and the region to pay their respects, to say farewell and to give thanks for the life of an extraordinary human being. For more than 70 years, the late Queen Elizabeth II dedicated her long life to service on behalf of the citizens of her country, the Commonwealth and to the world.  Her reassuring, calm and intelligent presence through seven momentous decades of history, turmoil and change is all that many of us have ever known.  Today, we must come to terms with the enormity of her death, and as we mourn, to give thanks that the Christian faith which sustained her in life also gave her confidence that she remains held in God’s love now and for ever.

“There will be great sadness for the nation and for the Royal Family who are mourning the loss of a mother, grandmother and great-grand mother – a much loved family member.  But there will also be memories, honour and gratitude for a remarkable life that was so well lived.”

Prayers will be said for the late Queen and for the Royal Family at all services and throughout the day.

 

The arrangements at York Minster are as follows:

 

Friday 9th September

The Flag of the Cross of St George is at half-mast on the North West tower.

12noon            Great Peter to be tolled.

12.00pm          Holy Communion in the Nave.

2.00pm            Hourly Prayer.

3.00pm            Hourly Prayer.

5.30pm            Choral Evensong with the Choir of York Minster and specially selected music and prayers.

7.30pm            The Minster and Dean’s Park close for the day.

 

This pattern of worship and prayer will follow throughout the official period of national mourning. All are welcome to the Minster to pray or reflect.

 

The pattern of worship Monday to Saturday can be found here.

The pattern of worship on Sundays can be found here.

 

Other dates of note/special services

There will be special prayers for the late Queen throughout the period.

In line with the official proclamation on Saturday 10th September, the Flag of St. George will be raised to full mast.

On Sunday 11th September, the Archbishop of York will preach and preside at the 11 am Eucharist where there will be appropriate hymns and prayers. The Archbishop will also sign the Book of Condolence.

On Saturday 17th September at 5.30pm a special commemorative service of Choral Evensong will be held for the late Queen.  All are invited.

On Sunday 18th September, a civic commemoration service in the nave of York Minster will take place at 4.00pm. All are invited.

 

Information about leaving floral tributes can be found here.

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