A service from the United Reformed Church marking the 70th anniversary of the reign of Her Majesty the Queen is now available.
The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee will be celebrated over a four-day Bank Holiday from 2-5 June.
The order of service is compiled by the Revd Dr Ana Gobledale, a member of URC’s Worship Reference Group, who explained that inspiration for the service arose from parts of the 2012 National Service of Thanksgiving in celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
“I wrote to the Queen to ask if she would like anything in particular included in the service, such as a particular reading or hymn, and if she would like to share any words with the URC on this special occasion.
In response, Annabel Whitehead, the Queen’s Lady-in-Waiting, said: “The Queen has been deeply moved by the loyalty and support she has received throughout her long reign from her subjects both at home and within the Commonwealth, and the sentiments you express as you prepare a Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee next year are greatly appreciated.
“It was kind of you to make Her Majesty aware of your considerate suggestions for this service and The Queen greatly appreciated your kind thought in writing as you did.”
Revd Gobledale, who has churches in Salisbury and Andover, added: “I see the service from the URC as an opportunity to highlight URC composers and liturgists, celebrating the vibrant and creative Free Church element of the realm.”
The service includes hymns, prayers and psalms written by ministers and members of the URC, and is available here.
Image: The Queen credit Defence Imagery_Flickr