A sad day...

I wake up this morning for the first time in my life without a Queen. I, like many across the nation and the world feel sad. A real sense of loss. Dignity, poise, steadfastness, warmth, humour, service and faith uniquely combined to make HM Queen Elizabeth a truely remarkable woman. She has outlasted and outlived 14 Prime Ministers, countless other foreign dignitaries and monarchs. On Sunday with millions around the world Bridge Church will mark this unique moment in history with thanks for HM The Queen. We will pray for King Charles III, the Royal Family and the nation. Part of our Christmas tradition as a family was to watch The Queen's Christmas Day message together. Each year she would honestly present some highlights and lowlights of the year. She would also encourage us to look to Christ and His example of how to live life and love others: "For me, the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, whose birth we celebrate today, is an inspiration and anchor in my life. A role-model of reconciliation and forgiveness, He stretched out His hands in love, acceptance and healing. Christ's example has taught me to seek to respect and value all people of whatever faith or none". Christmas Day 2014