Cardinal: Queen’s Coronation was the first time I watched a television!
Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster and President of the Bishops’ Conference, has recalled his memories of the Queen’s 1953 Coronation and offers his prayers for Her Majesty for her Platinum Jubilee year:
“Jubilees are for memories and thanksgiving. This Platinum Jubilee overflows with both,” said the Cardinal, who yesterday attended HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, along with Archbishop George Stack of Cardiff and Archbishop Leo Cushley of St Andrew’s and Edinburgh.
“How well I remember the Coronation mug and the bar of chocolate in its decorated tin box that I received, along with every child, on the day of Her Majesty’s Coronation. It was also the first time that I watched a television!
“Today we thank God for all the years of astonishing service that have been given by Her Majesty from that day of her solemn anointing, through times of peace and great sadness, suffering and joy.
“The calmness that she carries always with her arises from a soul at peace, rooted in a trust in God and inspired by her Christian faith, of which she speaks so eloquently and demonstrates so faithfully.
“God bless Her Majesty. May we pray for her always.”
Pic: Catholic church leaders of England, Wales and Scotland at today’s service of thanksgiving for the Queen at St Paul’s Cathedral. Cardinal Vincent Nichols (far right), Archbishop George Stack of Cardiff (second from right), and Archbishop Leo Cushley of St Andrews and Edinburgh (third from right).
It was good to see Wales represented by Archbishop George Stack of Cardiff (before he shortly retires), and Scotland represented by Archbishop Leo Cushley of St Andrews & Edinburgh. I could not see the Archbishop of Armagh (I believe he was due to attend) or who was representing the North of Ireland – perhaps poor camera shooting? However, what a splendid occasion!
70 years at the batting crease and 96 years on the pitch with loved ones is an extraordinary blessing. Wishing Queen Elizabeth II good health, a well deserved century and beyond. God bless.