The archbishop of Canterbury will miss the service of thanksgiving for the Queen’s reign this week after being diagnosed with pneumonia and testing positive for Covid.
Justin Welby had been due to preach at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday. Stephen Cottrell, the archbishop of York, will take his place.
Welby, 66, was diagnosed with mild pneumonia last Thursday. On medical advice, he reduced his work schedule to allow for rest and recovery. After developing symptoms over the weekend, he tested positive for Covid on Monday.
He has cancelled all engagements this week, and is resting at home and avoiding contact with others. It is the first time Welby has had Covid.
Lambeth Palace has informed Buckingham Palace that he is unable to attend the service and has conveyed the archbishop’s regret.
Welby was also due to light a beacon at Lambeth Palace on Thursday evening as part of the Queen’s platinum jubilee beacons events. Thousands of beacons will be lit by communities and charities across the UK and overseas territories.
The Lambeth Palace beacon will be lit on the archbishop’s behalf.
Welby said: “I am deeply saddened to be missing the historic celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s platinum jubilee. However, I will be praying for the Queen and giving thanks for her extraordinary 70 years of service to us all.
“I will also be praying for our nation at this time of celebration and thanksgiving. May the Queen’s example bring us together in unity and care for one another.
“For those attending Friday’s service at St Paul’s Cathedral, and the millions watching on television, I hope this joyful occasion will inspire us with the Queen’s profound commitment to fostering unity and peace among all people – and to promoting care for the natural world that God has given us.
“Led by the love of Jesus Christ, the Queen has lived her life for the benefit of others: l pray we find inspiration from Her Majesty over the jubilee weekend and long into the future.
“Meanwhile as we continue to live with coronavirus, I pray too for all those who are still suffering and everyone who continues to mourn loved ones they have lost during the pandemic. May you each know the love and comfort of God.
“As we prepare to celebrate the first platinum jubilee in our nation’s history, may God save the Queen, and bless her with the knowledge of our profound love and gratitude for her service to us all.”
