'The Queen led a life of duty and devotion - our loss is tangible'

She lived a very full life. Notably, she had a strong Christian faith which never wavered. That faith, intimate but not private, became the ‘rock’ that took her through dark days which we all know about.

Defender of the Faith since her coronation, she embraced everyone and offended no-one. In her annual message to our nation, Jesus Christ was unashamedly her rock of ages.

Losing someone of such stature, it’s not surprising we are left with such affection and at the same time a feeling of unease.

In mourning, if the incessant BBC and media channels will let us, we need time and space for quiet reflection, to keep Queen Elizabeth’s inspired example from becoming a memory, to ask ourselves where are we on our life’s journey, to pray the prayer Elizabeth herself once prayed:

God be in my head and in my understanding,
God be in my eyes and in my looking
God be in my heart and in my thinking
God be at my end and at my departing.

On whose shoulders will her values rest? King Charles now has the reawakened emotion of our entire nation behind him, our Queen’s passing away in Balmoral not Windsor is not without significance.

The churches throughout the UK, and the church I attend, are in prayer wholeheartedly behind King Charles.

Change is happening in our still united England. We can do more when we’re together.

The emergence of this generation’s young people have such high hopes for their future. Families are still on a high following the excellent results of their children’s GCSE and A-level results.

One proud Cockermouth father I know is still wanting to tell someone about his daughters two A-Stars and a B!

Life is good. The hard work of our young people warms the heart and brings a smile. Perseverance builds character, character builds hope for the future, and hope does not disappoint.

Who else but our late Queen Elizabeth II is proof of that.

Raymond Hall
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