Edinburgh minister is ‘delighted’ after becoming Queen’s chaplain
An Edinburgh minister who co-founded a children’s bereavement charity has been appointed as a chaplain to Her Majesty the Queen.
Rev Liz Henderson, of Richmond Craigmillar Church in the east of the city, will formally join her Majesty’s Household as a Chaplain-in-ordinary.
The prestigious role dates back to the 15th century and is today largely a ceremonial honour with chaplains taking part in formal state occasions and conducting services at significant national events.
Mrs Henderson said: “I am absolutely delighted. I regard it as a huge honour not just for me but for my church.”
The minister helped to setup Richmond’s Hope in 2003 to provide bereavement sup- port for local children. The charity was the first of its kind in Scotland specialising in child grief and now has four centres in Edinburgh, Midlothian and one in Glasgow.
Over 3,500 children have been helped since the charity was founded. Richmond Craigmillar Church is Mrs Henderson’s second parish since she was ordained in 1985 and plays a vital role in the community.
During the school holidays the church cafe provides free lunches for local children.
It also hosts ‘Fair Share Thursday’ which uses unwanted food provided by supermarkets to help vulnerable people.