We will gather for this service to worship and praise God giving thanks as we mark the Platinum Jubilee of The Queen’s reign. We celebrate seventy years of her sovereignty and service. Whatever our feelings toward the monarchy and nobility, we can all look to Queen Elizabeth with respect and gratitude for her life of faithful service.
This Order of Service, commissioned by the URC’s Worship Reference Group, has been compiled and written by Revd Dr Ana Gobledale. The service highlights items written by members of the United Reformed Church. Inspiration for the service arises from portions of the 2012 National Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee held at St Paul’s Cathedral. Please include all acknowledgements in printed service sheets.
When asked if she would like to suggest an item for inclusion in the service, the following written response was received from Balmoral Castle:
‘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, while not wishing to add a personal message, The Queen greatly appreciated your kind thought in writing as you did.’ Signed: Annabel Whitehead, Lady-in-Waiting.
This special service highlights hymns, prayers and psalms written by members of the United Reformed Church in Great Britain, celebrating our church’s freedom, diversity and witness throughout this realm.
Quotations from Queen Elizabeth II for reflection
- ‘I know just how much I rely on my faith to guide me through the good times and the bad. Each day is a new beginning. I know that the only way to live my life is to try to do what is right, to take the long view, to give of my best in all that the day brings, and to put my trust in God…I draw strength from the message of hope in the Christian gospel.’ — Queen Elizabeth, 2002 (p.6 in The Servant Queen, by Mark Greene & Catherine Butcher)
- ‘Love your Neighbour’ — The Queen, in her 1975 Christmas message said, ‘His [Jesus’s] simple message of love has been turning the world upside down ever since. He showed that what people are and what they do, does matter and does make all the difference…. It does matter therefore what each individual does each day. Kindness, sympathy, resolution and courteous behaviour are infectious. Acts of courage and self-sacrifice …are an inspiration to others. And the combined effect can be enormous…. We may feel powerless alone but the joining efforts of individuals can defeat the evils of our time. Together they can create a stable, free and considerate society.’ (p.49 in The Servant Queen, by Mark Greene & Catherine Butcher)
