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Queen compared to Solomon at Scotland's thanksgiving service

by Marcus Jones
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The moderator of the Church of Scotland has paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth during a service at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh.

Her coffin made its way to the church via a procession through Scotland's capital with her four children following on foot.

The coffin will now lie in the cathedral for 24 hours with members of the public able to visit to pay their respects.

At the service of thanksgiving, which was attended by King Charles III, the Queen Consort and political leaders including First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP and Prime Minister Liz Truss MP, Rt Rev Dr Ian Greenshields gave the homily.

Paying tribute, he said: "Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth began her reign, like King Solomon by asking for wisdom, something that she demonstrated in large measure and to which was added duty, honour, commitment, and faith.

"These are the words that we reach for today to describe the life and reign of Queen Elizabeth, whose passing is mourned not only in her native land but across the Commonwealth and the world, as has been so evident to us in recent days."

Speaking about her membership of the Church of Scotland, he said: "She was the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, but she worshipped in the Church of Scotland here north of the border, at Canongate Kirk and especially at Crathie Kirk where she took her pew each Sunday morning, prevented from doing so latterly only by infirmity.

"She perceived little difficulty in belonging to two Churches and appreciating the strength of each.

"It is clearly evident and without doubt that the Queen's Christian faith was genuine, and often gave clear and sincere expression in those remarkable Christmas broadcasts.

"She spoke unashamedly of her trust in God and of the example and teaching of Jesus Christ whom she sought to follow as best she could - indeed, of that faith she said she had no regret."

The service was the first of three special services taking place in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

On Tuesday 13th September 2022, King Charles will travel to Belfast where he'll meet with religious and political leaders before attending a service at St Anne's Cathedral.
 

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