Following the news of Queen Elizabeth II’s death on Thursday
8 September 2022, Gloucester Cathedral has announced that it will become a peaceful
space for contemplation and remembrance – for people of all faiths or none to
come together to remember Her Royal Highness The Queen.
Gloucester Cathedral’s bells will toll 96 times on Friday
9 September 2022 at 12pm midday. A memorial service is also due to be announced, and will also be live streamed on the cathedral's website and YouTube channel too.
Throughout the period of national mourning, Gloucester Cathedral will remain open daily between 10am and 5pm, and 12pm and 5pm on Sundays, for those wishing to say prayers or light a candle.
Special prayers will also be said at services for two weeks.
There will also be a book of condolence for people to sign and write down their memories of Her Majesty.
Canon Dr Andrew Braddock, Interim Dean of Gloucester, said: 'This is a huge loss to both the nation and the Commonwealth and one which we will all feel deeply for a long time to come. In difficult and uncertain moments such as this, the Cathedral is open and available to all as a safe and peaceful place. We invite everyone to visit to say a prayer, join us for a service or sign a formal book of condolence.'
The Right Reverend Rachel Treweek, Bishop of Gloucester, said: 'It is with deep sadness that we hear the news of the Queen’s death. As our sense of loss ripples out across the nation, Commonwealth and world, we give thanks for a life well lived. Whether we met her in person, saw her from a distance, or simply encountered her in our homes in newspapers, on the radio or on screen, we knew her as our Queen. We also knew that her leadership and dedication to her people was rooted in her Christian faith.'
