The Dean will deliver The Bidding, saying, “With grateful hearts, we remember the many ways in which his long life has been a blessing to us. We have been inspired by his unwavering loyalty to our Queen, by his service to the Nation and the Commonwealth, by his courage, fortitude and faith.” The speech continues, “Our lives have been enriched through the challenges that he has set us, the encouragement that he has given us, his kindness, humour and humanity.”
A four-person choir will perform songs that Philip selected prior to his death, including the Royal Navy song “Eternal Father, Strong to Save,” which ties into his military service. The choir will also sing Benjamin Britten‘s “Jubilate in C,” which Philip commissioned for St. George’s Chapel Choir, as well as an adaption of Psalm 104 set to music by William Lovelady, at Philip’s request. The Duke was fond of the piece, having heard it at a concert for his 75th birthday in 1996.
