Prince Philip: Everything You Need To Know About The 'Service Of Thanksgiving'
Buckingham Palace has announced the details of the upcoming Service of Thanksgiving. The special memorial event will give thanks to Prince Philip, alongside his dedication to the British Royal Family and the British Monarchy.
Express UK and other publications released a report on the matter, informing its audiences and readers about the service. It will take place at Westminster Abbey on March 29 and will see hundreds of invited guests, including members of the British Royal Family.
The publication noted that BBC One will broadcast the event, which will run for an hour and a half. The coverage will begin at 10:30 in the morning.
The official announcement has not named any members of the British Royal Family who will be present at the Service of Thanksgiving for Prince Philip. But, the publication claimed that attendees will include the senior working royals, with some expecting to see Prince Andrew.
It is, also, stated that the Duke of Edinburgh’s “wider family and friends,” as well as officials and household members, will be at the special event. Moreover, about 500 more individuals, who are representatives of the late royal’s patronages and charities, will attend, as well.
As for the specific events during the service, reports said that it will feature “reading and music close to [Prince Philip]’s heart. But, overall, it will center on his dedication and commitment and recognize the “importance of his legacy.”
With regard to the attendance of Queen Elizabeth II, no official word has been heard yet. Nevertheless, a palace source revealed that she “hopes” to make it to the memorial service for her late husband, Prince Philip, according to Reuters via U.S. News.
The talks about her health have continued to remain apparent since last year. She first sparked concerns among the public after spending a night in a hospital due to an undisclosed reason.
In February, she contracted COVID-19, although she only had “mild cold-like symptoms.” But, despite the recovery, the concerns about her health continue as she cancelled her appearance for a significant event earlier this month.
A member of the British Royal Family who has already confirmed not to attend the special memorial service for Prince Philip is Prince Harry, as well as his wife, Meghan Markle.
Earlier this month, the Duke of Sussex’s spokesperson stated that the former working royal has “no plans” to travel to the United Kingdom for the said event. It was noted, though, that he plans to visit Queen Elizabeth II “as soon as possible.”
The Duke of Edinburgh passed away at the age of 99 in April. The funeral was held at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, and only 30 people were allowed to attend due to the COVID-19 pandemic.