CHURCH leaders across Devon have paid their respects following the death of Her Majesty the Queen.

The Church of England has published an online book of condolence, as well as prayers and liturgical resources for churches and schools in commemoration.

The Right Reverend Robert Atwell, Bishop of Exeter, said in a statement: ‘The death of the Queen represents a huge watershed in the life of our nation.

‘Like the majority of the population, I cannot remember a time when the Queen was not on the throne.

‘She combined a strong sense of duty with a deep Christian faith.

‘She had an extraordinary ability to generate goodwill by celebrating the work of ordinary people and charities and by encouraging service to others.

‘She was a very private person who was public property, someone whom the world over was held in great affection and esteem.

‘The nation – and the Church of which she was head – owe her an enormous debt of gratitude.’

Rev’d Preb James Grier, Bishop of Plymouth designate, said: ‘I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Her Majesty the Queen.

‘This is such a sad and historic moment for our nation and the world.

‘Yet it is also a time of profound gratitude.

‘For the majority of us, she has been our only monarch.

‘Prior to her coronation, she asked for prayer for the wisdom and strength to faithfully serve God and the people of her monarchy all the days of her life.

‘This is a prayer that was well and truly answered, since the mark of her reign and life have been faith and service.

‘In all the changing seasons and the uncertainties of the decades, she has been a constant rock, pointing us to God, the Rock of Ages, who is with us in our grief today.’

Messages of condolence can be posted at https://www.churchofengland.org/remembering-her-majesty