So, it has happened. London Bridge has fallen down.

It is the end of the second Elizabethan era

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the UK’s monarch for the past 70 years, has today died aged 96 at Balmoral, surrounded by her family.

The world has lost a remarkable woman.

“I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service…” – HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II, WHEN SHE ASCENDED TO THE THRONE

And she kept her promise, working right to the end, when a mere two days ago, despite being frail and in poor health, she appointed Britain’s newest Prime Minister, Liz Truss.

Putting duty before self right to the very end, Queen Elizabeth II ruled with wisdom, dignity, poise and has been a beacon of strength, stability, honour, and grace globally.

The Commonwealth grew from 8 independent member countries to 56 independent member countries under The Queen’s 70 years of reign

The Queen dedicated her life to the service and people of the Commonwealth

Queen Elizabeth II has reigned over 15 prime ministers and met with 5 Popes including Pope John Paul II and Benedict XVI.

“Jesus’s teachings have been the bedrock of my faith. For me, the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace,…is an inspiration and an anchor in my life.” – Queen Elizabeth II

How very fitting that this woman of great faith goes to her eternal rest on the day of Our Lady’s, her namesake, feast day.

As if the heavens weep with the rest of us who mourn, it is raining in the UK and a rainbow appeared over Buckingham Palace, Balmoral and Windsor moments before her death was announced.

Her oldest child, Prince Charles, succeeds her as the next monarch with immediate effect and would reign as King Charles III.

His Holiness Pope Francis leads the global Catholic Church in paying tributes.

Cardinals and bishops, including Bishop Barron, also paid their tributes and offered messages of condolences to her family.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her.

May Her Majesty Elizabeth II rest in peace.

Elizabeth II, Dei Gratia Britanniarum Regnorumque Suorum Ceterorum Regina, Consortionis Populorum Princeps, Fidei Defensor.
Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God of the United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland & of Her other Realms & Territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith

Defender of the Faith

Commander in Chief of the Forces

Dutiful and dedicated to her country and the Commonwealth.

A steady constant presence in an ever-changing world.

Queen of Great Britain, the Commonwealth and all the realms.

Devoted wife, grandmother, and great grandmother

An example of faith, dignity, self-sacrifice, duty, continuity and fidelity

The nation’s beloved grandma

We are thankful for your service and dedication, dear Lilibet.

You have done your country and the world proud

Fare thee well and Requiescat in pace, Elizabeth Alexandra Mary
1926 – 2022

God save The King, Charles III.