Bishops have paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II following her death on Thursday 8 September at the age of 96.
Speaking on the passing of a “much-loved and deeply respected monarch,” Archbishop Eamon Martin, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, said, “Like so many people here on the island of Ireland and around the world, I was saddened to hear of the death today of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.” Archbishop Martin also expressed his sympathies to the new King, to the members of the Royal family and to all those who grieve at this time.
Bishop Donal McKeown of Derry said, “Queen Elizabeth lived a life of dedicated public service – at no small personal cost to herself. During some very challenging times she retained a great sense of calm and dignity.
“It was clear that Queen Elizabeth was a woman with a deep faith in Jesus Christ to whom we commend her. May she rest in peace.”
Speaking on the Queen’s faith, Archbishop Martin commented, “What stands out for me is her dedication to faith, to family, and to peace and reconciliation. I remember meeting Queen Elizabeth in Enniskillen in 2012, before I was ordained as bishop, when she took the courageous and historic step of visiting Saint Michael’s Catholic Church.”
In conclusion, Archbishop Martin said “I pray that Queen Elizabeth’s faith in the Risen Lord will be of comfort to many people, and especially to her grieving family at this sad time.”
ENDS
For the full statement of Archbishop Eamon Martin, click here.
For the full statement of Bishop Donal McKeown, click here.
