Across the United Kingdom, church services have been held to commemorate the life of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. At Canterbury Cathedral, the spiritual heart of the global Anglican community, Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, led a heartfelt service.
Archbishop Welby praised Prince Philip's enduring commitment, highlighting his \"remarkable willingness to take the hand he was dealt in life.\" Serving as the royal consort to Queen Elizabeth II for an unprecedented 69 years, Prince Philip became the longest-serving consort in British history.
Prince Philip passed away peacefully at the age of 99 on Friday morning, according to Buckingham Palace. As the nation mourns, preparations are underway for his funeral, scheduled to take place at St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle on Saturday.
A national period of mourning will extend until April 17, following the funeral ceremonies. Archbishop Welby, who is expected to officiate the service, has called on the public to keep the Queen and her family in their prayers. He expressed deep sorrow, stating, \"For the royal family, as for every other, no words can reach into the depth of sorrow that goes into bereavement. We all know that it is not simply a factor of age or familiarity, it is not obliterated by the reality of a very long life, remarkably led, nor is the predictability of death's arrival a softening of the blow. Loss is loss.\"
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Church services honor Prince Philip as funeral preparations under way
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