Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew signs the condolence book for the Queen

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople signed the condolence book for Queen Elizabeth II at the United Kingdom consulate in Istanbul.

He wrote:

“In the name of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, of its dioceses, hierarchs, clergy and faithful living in the United Kingdom, other Royal Realms, and the Commonwealth of Nations, in addition to our own, we express deepest sympathies and commiseration to His Majesty King Charles III, the Royal House, and all Britons following the demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“All of humanity greatly treasured Her Majesty’s leadership and wisdom during Her unprecedented and historical reign filled with much change throughout the globe.

“As the world reflects on Her countless contributions and lasting legacy, we acknowledge the importance that She placed on faith and our common Christian values throughout Her life and beseech our Heavenly Lord to grant Her eternal rest and peace.”

Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin arrived in Windsor on Monday, greeted by huge crowds lining the town’s Long Walk, ahead of a committal service attended by King Charles III and other members of the royal family.

The late monarch’s coffin was brought by car from central London, following a procession to Wellington Arch from Westminster Abbey, where hundreds of mourners gathered this morning for her funeral service.

The late monarch will be buried later this evening in a private memorial at St George’s Chapel, The Independent reported.

In his sermon at her funeral in Westminster Abbey, the Archbishop of Canterbury said “we will meet again”, echoing the words spoken by the Queen to the nation during the coronavirus pandemic. He also praised her for “abundant life and loving service”.

Some 2,000 mourners – including world leaders like US president Joe Biden – attended the service in the 1,269-year-old church.

The state funeral on Monday was the first of its kind since Winston Churchill received the honour in 1965.