The Death of His Royal Highness, Prince Philip

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the death of His Royal Highness, Philip Duke of Edinburgh. 

Lichfield Cathedral, together with the nation and the Commonwealth, offer our condolences to Her Majesty the Queen and the rest of the Royal Family in their bereavement and assure them of our continued prayers.

The Cathedral will be open for periods of private prayer and quiet reflection, to receive members of the community who wish to come to pray and to light candles. The day to day services continue and they will include specific prayers. 

Due to current Covid restrictions, we ask members of the public please NOT to travel to Lichfield, nor to leave flowers at the Cathedral.

We are unable to offer condolence books due to the restrictions, but the Church of England’s online condolence book can be found here and prayers can be left on our virtual prayer wall.

The Dean said, “We received with great sadness the news of the death of HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh. He has served our country selflessly as the Queen’s husband and consort since their marriage and her accession to the throne in 1952.

“He has shown genuine concern for the future of our country, through his interest in the environment, wildlife, education, and by ensuring we are at the forefront of scientific advancement.

“While our monarchy has its formal and solemn side, Prince Philip has shown a forthright wit and sense of humour and has helped the monarchy adapt and embrace change over the years. The Queen described him as her rock and he has been a major stabilising influence throughout her whole reign. He will be sorely missed.”

We invite people to use the following prayer

THE PRAYER

O God, our refuge and strength
Be our help in this time of sorrow.
We ask your blessing on all who mourn,
May we find comfort and hope in you.
Amen.

For the Lord is gracious; his steadfast love is everlasting
And his faithfulness endures from generation to generation.
Psalm 100 verse 4