Later today, the finale of Queen Elizabeth’s 60 years as monarch will be to visit to St Paul’s Cathedral in London for a Thanksgiving Service.
In the course of the all the celebrations, it won’t however be the only reference to religion.
The 86-year-old queen recently delivered a speech to a group of religious leaders from various faiths gathered at Lambeth Palace, home of the Archbishop of Canterbury,
“Our religions provide critical guidance for the way we live our lives, and for the way in which we treat each other. Many of the values and ideas we take for granted in this and other countries originate in the ancient wisdom of our traditions. Even the concept of a Jubilee is rooted in the Bible” said Her Royal Highness.
Defending religious pluralism, Queen Elizabeth claimed the role of the established church in Britain is not to defend Anglicanism to the exclusion of other faiths, but instead to protect the free practice of all faiths in the country.
“This occasion,” continued the Queen, “is thus an opportunity to reflect on the importance of faith in creating and sustaining communities all over the United Kingdom.”
“Faith plays a key role in the identity of many millions of people, providing not only a system of belief but also a sense of belonging. It can act as a spur for social action. Indeed, religious groups have a proud track record of helping those in the greatest need, including the sick, the elderly, the lonely and the disadvantaged. They remind us of the responsibilities we have beyond ourselves.”
Sources
- Deseret News
- Image: Examiner.com