Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Media and Communications Office
Coptic Orthodox Church (Europe)
Media and Communications Office
Statement from His
Eminence Archbishop Angaelos, Coptic Orthodox Archbishop of London, on the
passing of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh
9 April 2021
It is with exceptional
sadness that I received the news of the passing of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh today. Having had the pleasure of meeting
with His Royal Highness on numerous occasions over the past twenty years, I
will hold on to fond memories of his intelligence, sharp wit and uplifting
sense of humour. Prince Philip’s dedication to the United Kingdom and the
Commonwealth, and his avid love for serving others, most notably his admirable
support to and of Her Majesty The Queen, has always demonstrated incredible
dignity and strength of character.
This will undoubtedly be a time of sadness for Her Majesty and all members of The Royal Family and Household, while also being a time to rejoice in the life of His Royal Highness, and the rich legacy he so generously leaves us.
It is comforting that the departure of His Royal Highness comes so close to the celebration of the Feast of the Resurrection both in the Anglican and the Orthodox calendars, a time at which we reflect on death being a mere departure to a new and more glorious life with our Lord Jesus Christ.
May he rest in peace, and rise in glory.
My prayers and those of
my community are with Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family at this
difficult time.
+Angaelos
Coptic Orthodox Archbishop of London
Papal Legate to the United Kingdom