The Queen has approved prayers to celebrate her 90th birthday, it has been announced.
These prayers – both modern and traditional published verses – are going to be used at national events later on this year to celebrate the Monarch’s birthday, and were approved by Her Majesty, as Head of the Church of England. Royal news
Prayers have been released for The Queen’s 90th birthday this year. Picture by Ben Stevens / i-Images
The national liturgy and worship adviser for the Church of England, Dr. Matthew Salisbury said: “The prayers offer thanksgiving and praise for the long service of The Queen. They ask that through God’s grace and inspired by her example of faith and service for others, we may all receive strength and wisdom in our own lives.”
One of the graces imitates The Queen’s first Christmas speech given in 1952; this was they year George VI died. The Grace reads: “Gracious God, give our Queen continued wisdom and strength to carry out the promises she has made; and bless (this food, and) those who are gathered here, that, sustained by service for others, we may faithfully serve you, all the days of our life.”
On her 21st birthday in 1948, Princess Elizabeth promised to commit her life to the service of the UK and Commonwealth: “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.
“But I shall not have strength to carry out this resolution alone unless you join in it with me, as I now invite you to do: I know that your support will be unfailingly given. God help me to make good my vow, and God bless all of you who are willing to share in it.”
DETAILS OF PATRON’S LUNCH REVEALED BY PETER PHILLIPS
Elizabeth II has been a committed Christian her whole life, and is regularly spotted attending church at Sandringham over the festive period: her religion is central to her life and duty as Sovereign.
The Queen’s milestone is going to be celebrated in a weekend of celebrations at the same time as Trooping the Colour, her official birthday on 11th June. On Friday 10th, a service at St.Paul’s Cathedral will be held in her honour, and The Queen and Prince Philip are expected to attend.
On Saturday 11th June, the birthday parade will be staged at Horse Guards Parade, with the Coldstream Guards trooping their flag this year for the Royal salute.
Sunday will see the Patron’s Lunch hosted on The Mall, organised by Peter Philips and his company, to celebrate the 600+ organisations Her Majesty represents and patronises. Never before have all these charities come together to celebrate their work or The Queen’s.
