A SERVICE of prayer, thanksgiving and commendation in remembrance of her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II held for the Parish of South Petherwin, took place in the Methodist Church on Sunday morning, September 18.

The service was arranged jointly by Philip Parsons (chairman of the parish council) and Mary Stoneman (Methodist Church) and led by Rev Cathy Arscott.

The hymns sung were, ‘Praise my soul the King of Heaven’, ‘The Lord’s my Shepherd’, ‘Great is Thy faithfulness’ and ‘O God our help in ages past’.

Bible readings from Psalm 139:1-12 and John 14: 1-6 were read by Angela Noakes and Julie Barlow respectively and Philip Parsons read ‘An Act of Thanksgiving for the life of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.’

In her address Rev Cathy reminded all of the many things the Queen was fond of, horses, her dogs, flowers and every morning she was woken to the sound of the bagpipes being played.

She also commented on the Queen’s natural warmth and her ability to put you at ease and also her great sense of humour.

Ahead of her Coronation she prayed that God may give her wisdom and strength to carry out the solemn promises she would be making and that she may faithfully serve him and you all, the days of her life.

Rev Cathy ended her address by reading Psalm 67.

After the final hymn, prayers and blessing, the service concluded with the National Anthem. Coffee, tea, biscuits and conversation then followed in the Sunday school room.

The parish book of condolences was in place for anyone wishing to sign it.