SW News: The demise of Queen Elizabeth II of Britain has brought curtains down on an era. Her reign that spanned seven decades was marked by her steadfast Christian faith. Her Lambeth Conference message was perhaps one of the last major addresses of the Queen and its highlight was the declaration that the teachings of Christ have been her guide all her life.

When the Lambeth Conference brought together bishops of the Anglican Communion from around the world last month, Queen Elizabeth, in her message, stressed that the whole world needs the “the love of God – both in word and deed”. She also added that “throughout my life, the message and teachings of Christ have been my guide and in them I find hope.”

Towards the end of her message advised the Bishops taking part in the once-in-12-year conference to get strengthened in Christ. “It is my heartfelt prayer that you will continue to be sustained by your faith in times of trial and encouraged by hope at times of despair,” she said.

Queen Elizabeth never refrained from showcasing her love for Christ and it was evident in her 2021 Christmas message as well. Her Majesty in her Christmas message stated that the story of Christmas is about hope, the hope of a new dawn with the birth of a child.

“It is this simplicity of the Christmas story that makes it so universally appealing, simple happenings that formed the starting point of the life of Jesus – a man whose teachings have been handed down from generation to generation, and have been the bedrock of my faith,” the Queen said.

The British monarch’s message was filled with an optimistic view. She stated that “His birth marked a new beginning.” She concluded by stressing that Jesus was her hope and “the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.”

The Queen's Christian witness during her long reign was attested by the head of the Catholic episcopate of England and Wales Cardinal Vincent Nichols. Speaking to Vatican media, the Archbishop of Westminster said the Queen herself said that the rock and strength of her life was her Christian faith. He added that the "teachings of Christ and my own accountability before God provide a framework in which I try to lead my life.”