Faith in High Places

It seems fitting, with the passing away and burial of HRH Prince Philip, to consider the role of faith in the lives of those at the hierarchy of our society. Whilst the Queen has been outspoken about her Christian faith on various occasions not many knew much

about her husband's. It is natural to imagine that he would have some form of Christian faith because of his lengthy close relationship with the Queen, but whether it was deep enough to warrant a mention was never known. Now we know. In his tribute to Prince Philip, the former Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, said that Prince Philip had a very deep faith which grew deeper and deeper in Christ as he questioned it, and this according to Dr Sentamu, allowed him to relate with anybody regardless of their beliefs because he was fairly safe in his own faith. This is encouraging, because every time I hear that someone prominent has passed away, I always ask the pertinent question - "Where is their soul now?" Jesus asked what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world but loses his soul? The destination of the soul is the most important issue we need to deal with in life and it seems that Prince Philip resolved that during his lifetime. Dr John Sentamu quoted a favourite prayer of Prince Philip's by John Henry Newman - which is well worth reiterating here:

Peace at Last

O Lord, support us all day long,

until the shadows lengthen,

and the evening comes,

and the busy world is hushed,

and the fever of life is over,

and our work is done.

Then in your mercy,

grant us a safe lodging and a holy rest,

and peace at last. Amen.