London –
It is a coronation of many faiths and many languages.
King Charles III wants to show he can be the one to bring all of Britain together, and will be crowned in a ceremony that for the first time includes the active participation of religions other than the Church of England. .
Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh leaders will participate in various aspects of the coronation ceremony, the Archbishop of Canterbury’s office announced on Saturday, describing it as a Christian act of worship that reflects modern society. details of the service provided.
The ceremony will feature a female bishop for the first time, and hymns and prayers will be sung in Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, Irish Gaelic and English.
Archbishop Justin Welby, spiritual leader of the Church of England, said in a statement, “Our worship includes new elements that reflect the diversity of our modern society.” It is my prayer that all who enter the service will find ancient wisdom and new hope that will bring them inspiration and joy.”
The coronation reflects Charles’ efforts to show that a 1,000-year-old monarchy still matters in a far more diverse country than it did 70 years ago when his mother was crowned. The King is the supreme governor of the Church of England, but according to the latest census, less than half the population now describes themselves as Christian.
Built around the theme of “a vocation to serve,” the coronation service begins with one of the youngest members of the congregation, the Chapel Royal Choir, greeting the King.
According to Lambeth Palace, home of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the moment aims to highlight the importance of young people in today’s world.
The service also includes many historical elements that highlight the ancient tradition of passing power to new kings and queens over the centuries.
During the most sacred part of the service, the Archbishop of Canterbury anoints the king, consecrates him, and separates him from his subjects.
At this point the screen covers Charles, and apart from a few senior members of the clergy, the anointing is not visible to most people on television or in the convent.
A spokesperson for Lambeth Palace said: “When the screens surrounding the coronation chairs are removed, the King is revealed to all of us as a man charged with serving God and serving his people.” He spoke on the customary terms of anonymity.
This is followed by the unveiling of the coronation regalia, sacred objects such as orbs and scepters that symbolize the monarch’s power and responsibility.
In another innovation that reflected the changing religious landscape in Britain, members of the House of Lords belonging to Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh traditions presented the King with items that had no clear Christian symbolism. increase.
A new king is then crowned and the refrain “God Save the King” echoes through the monastery.
After Prince Charles was crowned, the traditional homage to the nobility was replaced by a ‘homage to the people’, with people at the monastery and those watching on television invited to affirm their loyalty to the king.
Camilla was then anointed in 1937 in a manner similar to that of the Queen Mother, Queen Elizabeth. But Camilla’s anointing is never hidden behind a screen.
The congregation is also invited to recite the Lord’s Prayer in their language of choice.
Leaders and representatives of faith communities greet in unison just before Prince Charles departs for London’s street procession aboard a Gold State coach. Lambeth Palace said the greeting will not be amplified out of respect for those who observe the Jewish Sabbath and are prohibited from using electrical devices.
