Queen Elizabeth II

Statement by Professor Peter Finn, KSG

On behalf of St Mary’s University College: A College of Queen's University, I wish to express our sincere condolences following the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

Over the course of Queen Elizabeth's 70-year reign, her life was devoted to public service. Pope Francis has referred to her 'steadfast faith' and Archbishop Eamon Martin has said that above all, Queen Elizabeth was a person of deep faith and love for Jesus Christ.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales said that Queen Elizabeth's faith informed her position on many matters including education for respecting diversity and engagement with others.

As a faith-based institution of higher education, St Mary’s University College recognises and pays tribute to her Christian leadership through challenging times in political, economic, social and family life. We also acknowledge her courageous and historic contribution to peace and reconciliation.

We join with the Vatican in prayers for the repose of the soul of Queen Elizabeth II.

Almighty God, grant your servant, Elizabeth, eternal rest, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon her.
May she rest in peace.
Amen