As a period of national mourning begins following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II today, there will be a short service in the College Chapel at 10:30am on Friday 9 September, giving an opportunity to give thanks for and mourn our remarkable head of state who has served with such distinction and dedication over the last 70 years. This is a unique point in almost all of our lives, and I am sure that a moment to be still and to be together will be of great value for many of us. This is for anybody and everybody who wishes to attend - any Fellows, staff and students present in College, or anyone who wish to travel to be with us. The service will last less than half an hour.
The Chapel will of course remain open during this 10 day period, for prayer and thanksgiving at any point, and there will be candles available for those who wish to light one.
There will be a book of condolence at Girton Parish Church should anybody wish to sign it. The Parish Church will be holding services on Sunday too, with opportunities for prayer and thanksgiving in particular at their 8am and 6pm services. The Rev'd Michael Bigg will be happy to receive any enquiries - he can be contacted via email: rector@girton.church
We are expecting information about a University Book of Condolence in due course.
My best wishes and prayers as ever,
Rev'd Dr Tim Boniface
Chaplain and Bye-Fellow
Girton College
University of Cambridge