Gallery: Chaplains minister in London after death and funeral of Prince Philip

by Claisse Opulencia   |     |   ,
Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, passed away age 99 on Friday April 9. He was married to Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for over 70 years, and was the longest serving consort to the monarchy to date. Following the announcement of his death, thousands of people travelled to Buckingham Palace to pay their respects.
People laid a wall of floral tributes at the iconic Buckingham Palace gates to commemorate the long life of the Duke.
A team of chaplains from the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team travelled to London just hours after the Queen announced the death of her husband. They were present amongst the crowds to offer emotional and spiritual support to people during a difficult time.
Chaplains share a moment of prayer as they commence their ministry in central London.
“We’ve been able to pray with a lot of people. Most people have been sincere, loving and sensitive towards what has happened. It’s been amazing to see people honour Prince Philip and the family,” a chaplain said.
Chaplains deployed to Buckingham Palace for two weekends in a row, including the weekend of the Duke’s funeral. They were able to pray with countless people, sharing the light of Christ with those they encountered.
“It’s a privilege to pray with people and introduce Christ into their hearts,” a chaplain said.
People have been more open to talk and share their own struggles, especially how the pandemic has negatively impacted their personal and working life.
“There’s such a sadness in the atmosphere, but people are ready to talk whether it’s about Prince Philip or the difficulties they’re facing in life as a whole,” one chaplain said.
Buckingham Palace visitors left heartfelt messages for the Duke of Edinburgh on their tributes.
One man opened up about his difficult upbringing and asked a Billy Graham chaplain about faith in Jesus Christ. Ready for a new beginning in life, he prayed to accept Christ as his Lord and Saviour.
Chaplains also had many encounters with police, security staff and crowd stewards who manned the palace gates. Many thanked them for their comforting presence during a difficult time.
Chaplains were also able to speak with people experiencing homesickness. Because of travel restrictions in the midst of the pandemic, oversees workers have not been able to travel back home to see their family. Chaplains were able to offer a listening ear and even a moment of prayer with them.
During the course of ministry, chaplains witnessed how God delivered peace and hope to many hearts in London. While some encounters were simple conversations, many left with counsel, prayer, and a new found peace in Christ.

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