Dame Elisabeth Murdoch: An Emotional Memorial Service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Melbourne
Rupert Murdoch, Chairman and Chief Executive of News Corporation , emotionally honored Dame Elisabeth Murdoch,his mother, at her memorial service this morning. The St. Paul's Cathedral in Melbourne was overflowing with family members and representatives from Dame Elisabeth's numerous supported charities and arts organizations.
Several people were also able to watch the memorial service on the screens provided at the nearby Federation Square. In his eulogy, Rupert Murdoch shared that his mother's profound love for her husband and children has strongly formed the family from the very beginning.
"However you came to know her, what you remember is her strength of character that defined Elisabeth Murdoch's life. For mum, love wasn't something soft or mushy. It was strong and reliable, something that brings you comfort and peace when you are lonely and troubled. When you have it, as we have it, you know you have the greatest comfort you will ever find in this life," Murdoch stated.
Jeff Kennett, former Victorian Premier, remembered how Dame Elisabeth Murdoch affected people's lives. "She was always there. It's rarely in life that you meet a person outside the family who has a profound influence on yourself. She was always optimistic, always full of beans," Kennett shared.
Mourners who also joined in remembering Dame Elisabeth's vast humanitarian ways were Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu, Federal Government representative Attorney-General Nicola Roxon and former Prime Ministers John Howard and Malcolm Fraser. Governor-General Quentin Bryce delivered a reading as well as Victorian Governor Alex Chernov.
Chief Executive Christine Kilpatrick of the Royal Children's Hospital said she will always remember Dame Elisabeth as a much cherished friend. "We will remember Dame Elisabeth and celebrate her outstanding dedication and overall commitment to the health and wellbeing of the children of Victoria," Kilpatrick stated.
Melbourne's Anglican Archbishop Philip Freier and the Very Reverend Andreas Loewe led the memorial service of Dame Elisabeth Murdoch who passed away at the age of 103. The musical chimes of the cathedral bells were heard at past 10 a.m. which indicated the approaching memorial service.
To give way for Dame Elisabeth's memorial service, Flinders St. is closed between Russell and Queen Streets. Swanston St. is also closed between the Arts Centre and Flinders Lane until 2 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Murdoch family requested for donations instead of flowers to Dame Elisabeth's memorial service. The money collected will be given to the Murdoch Children's Research Institute.