Members of Leicester’s multi faith community came together last night, for a poignant vigil in memory of Her Majesty, the late Queen Elizabeth II.
People packed the village hall at the city’s Sacred Heart Parish Church last night (Tuesday, September 13), to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away last Thursday (September 8), at the age of 96.
As a mark of respect, 96 candles were lit inside the village hall by members of the community, to reflect the years of Her Majesty’s life and service. A minute’s silence was also held in her honour.
The vigil was led by Fayyaz Suleman, Chair of Leicester Council of Faiths.
People came to “share in the grief and stand together in solidarity in the time of mourning”, he said of the gathering.
Commenting on the general feeling in the community following the Queen’s passing, he described a feeling of “shock and sadness”.
“Our late Queen was very well respected among all the faith communities of Leicester and Leicestershire, and across the world in fact,” he added. “I think a lot of people wanted to do something to show their respect, have a mark of remembrance and be a part of the national mourning.”
One woman who attended yesterday’s vigil described the late Queen Elizabeth II as “one of the best monarchs this country has ever had.”
“Her sacrifice is admired by all of us,” added another mourner who was there on the day. “We cannot find anyone to match what she’s done for the whole community, and all over the globe.”
The country is currently in the midst of a period of mourning for Queen Elizabeth, which will end following her funeral on Monday, September 19.
Her body will lie in state at Westminster Hall from later today, where members of the public will be able to pay their final respects.
