A statement following the death of Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

A statement following the death of Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II from the Interfaith Forum for Kensington and Chelsea

The Interfaith Forum of Kensington and Chelsea is united in expressing our profound sorrow as we learn of the death of our Queen whose faithfulness, loyalty and devotion to her people has been an inspiring example throughout her 70 years as our monarch and, from before when, at only 21, she made her public promise: “I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong.”

Those words of maturity and wisdom set the standard for a life which rightly won her the love, admiration and respect of people of diverse faiths and cultures both in the UK and across the world. In matters of state, she was exemplary and worked tirelessly to ensure she was well informed and engaged. We give thanks for the joy she brought to individuals and communities with her warm smile and gentle humour.

We remember too that she was also a family person – wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Our prayers and thoughts are with King Charles III, all her children and wider family. May they grieve but not as those without hope. And as our nation also grieves, may the Royal Family know we hold them in our thoughts and hearts. Queen Elizabeth’s was a shining life well lived and the powerful legacy she leaves of welcoming people of all faiths and none will continue to inspire and encourage generations yet unborn.