A funeral fit for The Queen
National Moment of Reflection vigil held by Enniskillen Castle
FROM the sight of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’S remains being borne through the streets of London to Westminster Abbey on the Victorian State Gun Carriage, pulled along by 142 naval ratings, to that of her coffin quietly, gently sinking into the royal vault beneath St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle, Monday provided a day of extraordinary images that many millions of people watching all across the world will remember for decades to come.
It was in London, however, that the full pomp and ceremony befitting The Queen’s funeral service and last journey was on greatest display, as world leaders gathered at Westminster Abbey.
Outside, vast crowds of ordinary people from every walk of life had also gathered, lining the streets and roads to pay their respects to their beloved monarch.
The solemn day was also a day not just to say a last farewell to Her Majesty as her remains passed by on her final journey, but also for everyone to lend their support to His Majesty, King Charles III and the rest of the Royal family, as the Second Elizabethan Age reached its end.
Here are just a few of the unforgettable sights and images of a day that will live long in the memory of all who bore witness.
MEMBERS, family and friends of the County Fermanagh Royal Black Institution gathered on Sunday evening for a National Moment of Reflection vigil.
A few hundred people gathered prior to 8pm for a short service beside Enniskillen Castle, led by Sir Knight Howard Mcmorris, County Lay Chaplain.
The crowd was welcomed by County Grand Master Wor. Sir Knight Tom Elliott, who welcomed all and said: “Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, was constant and steadfast, and even in the most trying times, she was a beacon of hope.
“As members and friends of the Royal Black Institution – and I do emphasis the word, ‘Royal’ – it is important we show respect and gratitude for her life and reign.
“What was admired by almost everyone was the sense of duty and commitment by Her Majesty, from her activities during the war years to her commitment as monarch right to her death, and as we all know, all of that was in the public eye, which isn’t easy.”
The County Grandmaster continued: “The passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II marks an end to a special era that we were graced to have lived in it with her.
“As one chapter closes, another opens, and with that, we will all provide support to His Majesty, King Charles III. God save The King.”
The Bible reading from Psalm 112 was read by Sir Knight Wesley Graydon, and the tribute was led by Sir Knight Howard Mcmorris. The hymns were led by local singer, Lynda Lindsay.
The service finished slightly ahead of the National Moment of Silence, and Lynda then led those gathered in additional hymns before all gathered bowed their head at 8pm for the minute’s silence as part of National Moment of Reflection, and in thanks for Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and her service.