News / Queen Elizabeth II
Singing and solemnity as Bristol Cathedral screens Queen’s funeral
Only three years ago, the dean of Westminster, David Hoyle, was leading services at Bristol Cathedral where he was also dean.
On Monday morning, his words – and early clearing of a dry throat – were heard by millions of people across the world as he led the funeral service for Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey.
Hoyle’s former place of work was at capacity as the state funeral was broadcast live on three screens, becoming almost an extension of the abbey.
is needed now More than ever
Many attended Bristol Cathedral wearing black, some sporting their military medals and others in more casual attire.
Many of those in attendance also joined in with the singing of the hymns and of course the national anthem at the end of the service.
Those from Bristol attending Westminster Abbey in person included the University of Bristol’s vice chancellor, professor Evelyn Welch; and the lord-lieutenant of Bristol, Peaches Golding.
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Welcoming those gathered in Bristol Cathedral was the current dean, Dr Mandy Ford, who spoke as on the screens, naval ratings waited outside Westminster Hall to receive the late queen’s coffin.
“We are delighted that you have chosen to come together in this place where people have gathered for hundreds of years for moments of celebration and moments of lament,” Ford said.
Heads were bowed in Bristol during prayers in London, while the congregation at the cathedral also stood for the Last Post – also the first chance to stretch tired legs – and then observed a minute’s silence before the singing of God Save the King, with glances at the order of service for the words to the rarely sung second verse.
The congregation Bristol Cathedral remained standing as the Queen’s coffin was borne out of Westminster Abbey, with prayers then led in Bristol by bishop Viv Faull before it was time to leave to the sound of the muffled cathedral bells ringing.
Main photo: Martin Booth
Read next:
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