On behalf of the Mothers' Union in St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, may we add our voice, our thoughts and our prayers for our county and our clergy as we take in the sadness of the death of our dear Queen, and Patron of Mothers' Union.
We join with others in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth in offering our love and sincere condolences to all the members of the Royal Family.
Her Majesty has had a long and extraordinary life, witnessing many changes, yet her service and dedication to duty to Country and Commonwealth has remained steadfast and sure.
The Mothers' Union stands for "Christian care for families", and her long marriage, her devotion to family life and commitment to those of all faiths, and none, has been an example to us all, and has reminded us of the healing power of forgiveness, peace and reconciliation.
Confident in her Christian faith, knowing Jesus to be the sure and certain Rock, her hope, and foundation, she was able to share that faith and love publicly during her Christmas broadcasts, and throughout all her royal duties she has been an inspiration to us all.
We are holding the Royal Family in our prayers at this sad time, and trust that they will know the comfort and peace of our Lord Jesus, especially in the weeks and months ahead.
May the Queen rest in peace and rise in glory.
Image of Her Majesty reproduced with kind permission of Mary Sumner House.