« Statement from the Diocese of Sourozh, Russian Orthodox Church in the UK and Ireland regarding the Accession of His Majesty King Charles III »

In the days of mourning for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II the peoples of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth have been gladdened by the Proclamation of the Accession to the Throne of His Majesty, King Charles III. With them the people of our diocese, clergy, monastics and laity, join in giving thanks to Almighty God for the long and glorious reign of our late Queen, who by her lifelong dedication to the service appointed to her by the Divine Providence won the love and respect of millions of people throughout the world. 

The Accession speaks powerfully of continuity and stability in troubled times, of profound gratitude to and respect for the late Monarch and of quiet confidence that the new Sovereign will maintain that which is of enduring value in the established constitutional order and will become the chief focus of our national unity in diversity. In this function we see a certain reflection of the reconciling work of the King of Kings, Our Lord Jesus Christ, Who has broken down the walls of division erected by human sin and shown us the path of humble service to one another.

His Grace Bishop Matthew of Sourozh has written to His Majesty The King to assure him and The Queen Consort of our prayers and sincere good wishes as he takes up the dignity and burden of the monarchy. May His Majesty’s reign be blessed by peace and prosperity at home and throughout the world for many years.

God save The King!