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Prince William’s role at the upcoming King Charles III coronation is essential. Unlike others, King Charles III’s coronation event is more than just merriment for William. The prince will wear an important hat during his dad’s coronation. William has the responsibility of presenting the king with the Stole and Robe Royal at the ceremony. As with most royal customs and practices, William’s role at the ceremony is symbolic with a deeper meaning.
Prince William’s Role at King Charles III’s Coronation
King Charles III’s coronation is only a matter of days away. And the details for the event are being finalized as the day draws near. In preparation for the event, The Church of England released “The Coronation Liturgy,” tagged “Called to serve.” The “Liturgy” is a Christian worship act that reverences a monarch’s crowning.
The coronation liturgy has stated, among other things, the role of the Prince of Wales in the upcoming coronation. According to the church’s liturgy, William, the heir to the throne, will perform two symbolic roles. William will pledge his loyalty and allegiance to the king in his first role during the coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey. He will pledge his loyalty to the King, reciting, “I, William, Prince of Wales, pledge my loyalty to you, and faith and truth I will bear unto you, as your liege man of life and limb. So help me, God.”
Prince William’s Second Role
For his second role, the Prince of Wales will present the king with the Stole Royal and the Robe Royal during the coronation service. The Stole Royal will be vested in the king by the Bishop of Durham. For the adornment of the Robe Royal, William, along with Baroness Merron and assisting bishops, will mount it on King Charles. Per the church’s website, the scarf will highlight “significant Christian iconography, such as the gridirons of St. Lawrence” and palm branches.
Like the stole, the Robe Royal is significant in royal history. The robe, made of gold apparel, features patterns that date far back to the coronation of King George IV. Per the Royal Trust Collection, the designs on the clothing are curvilinear patterns of foliage, crowns, and fleur-de-lis. It also features eagles with colored roses, thistles, and shamrock woven over, with gold fringing and lined in red tabby silk.
Coronation to Feature New Practices
King Charles III’s coronation is scheduled to be held on May 6. Per the liturgy, the historic event will feature a distinct break in the practices from earlier coronation services. One significant change is the general public’s offer to join national figures to declare their allegiance to the Sovereign. The countdown for one of the most historic events of our time is almost up. King Charles will be crowned king on May 6. The British public and those interested in royal affairs will surely be looking forward to it.