LONDON, UK — Britain’s King Charles III was crowned in a historic ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, May 6, 2023, embracing modernity and inclusivity in a once-in-a-generation event attended by high-profile guests and tens of thousands of well-wishers.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, placed the 360-year-old St. Edward’s Crown on Charles’ head in the coronation’s most significant moment, declaring, “God Save the King.”
The ceremony, lasting just over two hours, followed a traditional template while incorporating key modern elements reflecting the diverse United Kingdom.
Acknowledging the nation’s multiple faiths, Archbishop Welby stated that the Church of England “will seek to foster an environment in which people of all faiths may live freely.”
King Charles III took the Coronation Oath and became the first monarch to pray aloud at his coronation, asking to “be a blessing” to people “of every faith and conviction.”
During the sacred anointing with holy oil, the King was presented with the coronation regalia, including the royal Robe and Stole.
In a historic first, the Archbishop invited the British public and those from “other Realms” to recite a pledge of allegiance to the newly crowned monarch and his “heirs and successors.”
Facing criticism, the Church of England revised the liturgy text, offering a choice between saying “God save King Charles” or reciting the full pledge of allegiance.
Queen Camilla was crowned with Queen Mary’s Crown in her own ceremony and presented with the Sceptre and Rod.
The event also featured a Bible reading by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and, for the first time, gospel music.
The King and Queen arrived at Westminster Abbey in a splendid coach drawn by six horses, accompanied by the Household Cavalry.
After the ceremony, they returned to Buckingham Palace in a grand parade, with 4,000 armed forces members, 250 horses, and 19 military bands.
Weather permitting, the celebrations will conclude with a royal salute, a customary balcony appearance, and a flypast of over 60 aircraft.