King Charles Coronation: What happens during the service at Westminster Abbey?
The coronation of King Charles III will take place on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Westminster Abbey in London. The King will be crowned alongside Camilla, the Queen Consort, at the ceremony.
A coronation service at Westminster Abbey, where most British monarchs have been crowned since 1066, involves several important ceremonies and rituals. Some of the common aspects of a coronation service may include:
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Recognition
The monarch is presented to those gathered at Westminster Abbey while standing beside the 700-year-old Coronation Chair. It is a day of celebration for the congregation as they will shout, "God save the King!" to the sounds of trumpets.
The Oath
The oath is a solemn promise made by a sovereign to uphold the law and the Church of England. It is a symbol of the sovereign's commitment to their duties as head of state and defender of the faith. Upholding the law means that the sovereign promises to act within the legal framework of the country and to enforce the laws of the land. The Church of England oath signifies the sovereign's commitment to being the head of the Church of England, the state church of England, and to maintain its doctrines and practices.
The anointing
The King's ceremonial robe is removed and he sits on the Coronation Chair. To conceal the King, a gold cloth is draped over the chair. Anointing the King with holy oil containing ambergris, orange flowers, roses, jasmine, and cinnamon is performed by the Archbishop of Canterbury, symbolizing the bestowal of divine authority. Animal-derived ingredients will not be used in the oil created for Charles.
Investiture with regalia
The monarch is presented with regalia, including the crown, orb, scepter, and other items that symbolize his or her authority and responsibilities.
Crowning
The Archbishop of Canterbury places the crown on the monarch's head, while the crowd cheers and trumpets sound.
Homage
Various dignitaries, such as peers of the realm, swear allegiance to the new monarch and pay homage, by kneeling and kissing his or her hand or cheek.
Holy Communion and other religious rituals
The monarch and other participants in the service take part in religious ceremonies, including Holy Communion and prayers, as part of the coronation service. Overall, the coronation service aims to affirm the authority of the monarch and to provide a religious and symbolic ceremony that marks the beginning of their reign.