READING Minster Church of St Mary the Virgin is open to the public for private prayers and tributes to Her Majesty The Queen.
From 9am-9pm on Friday, September 9, the church is accepting visitors to pay their respects to the late monarch after the announcement of her death.
Visitors are welcome to make tributes and light candles in her honour.
An official book of condolence will be made available for members of the public to sign at the church.
The Reverend Sonya Wratten said: “We’re open for people to come to the church to light candles, to take some time of reflection and quiet prayer, and to give thanks for the life of Her Majesty,
“We also have one of the official condolence books here at Reading Minster, and we also have a prayer tree so that people can write their thoughts and prayers.”
She said also that the church was open for those wishing to reflect on the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.
“We’re here for people to want to come and talk as well, because sometimes in these times of collective grief, it evokes emotions, feelings, and memories, recent or in the past, and reminds us of our personal losses as well.
“We very much want to be there for everybody in Reading who wants to come and see us and spend some time here.”
As the head of the church, the death of Her Majesty The Queen means that the role now passes to His Majesty King Charles III.
Reverend Wratten said: “This is a huge occasion for us.
“We’re saddened by the loss of her, but we are really giving thanks for her service and for her life, and giving thanks for that public service.
“Public service was part and parcel of her faith, her Christian faith which she exemplified, and spoke of often in her life, and in her service to others.
“She gave an incredible public service to those of other faiths and no faith – she encapsulated being a leader who was inclusive of all and wanting to serve the public, whoever they are.”
