Utah’s Anglican community reacts to Queen Elizabeth’s passing

SALT LAKE CITY — Plenty of people here in Utah joined the British Thursday in mourning the Queen’s passing, including those in the Anglican community which has roots in the Church of England.

The Episcopal Church may have broken off from the Church of England with the revolutionary war, but they are very much under the same Anglican umbrella of faith today.

Whether you love the royals America’s ties with the Brits will always be strong, perhaps even more for those in the Episcopal faith.

Phyllis Speigel, Bishop-elect of the Diocese of Utah said, “Our hearts today are with our colleagues, our friends who are in the Church of England. We are deeply sorry in the Episcopal Church for all the loss of such a wonderful leader.”

Speigel added Queen Elizabeth was a woman of conviction and not just because of her title as Defender of the Faith. “And so people looked to her to lead the faith of the country and she did so with such dignity and grace.”

We can expect a funeral of celebration and Easter service with a focus on resurrection Speigel said, “So rather than a somber affair, it will actually be celebrating her new life with God.”

She said the Anglican service will be very similar to those we’ve seen at the National Cathedral, like that of George H. Bush held there in 2018. “So there will be a lot of protocol, a lot of dignitaries present,” Speigel said.

Saying goodbye to a world leader whose reign spanned seven decades will draw a wide swath of people who want to pay their respects.

“She knew people everywhere and faith leaders, religious leaders but also people who fought for the betterment of this world will feel deeply compelled to be present if they’re able to,” Speigel said.

Spiegel said the Queen’s example is something to consider now.

“That’s the best part about when you celebrate someone’s life is to say, ‘how am I going to take that into my own life.”

Speaking of the Episcopal and Anglican faith, Spiegel said we are asked to stand peacefully and firmly as beacons of peace and hope. Things she said Queen Elizabeth did very well.