King Charles joined the Duke of Kent at St Paul’s Cathedral for a Service of Dedication and Commemoration honouring the Order of St Michael and St George.
The occasion represented a significant milestone, as it marked the first time the monarch had participated in this service since assuming his role as Sovereign of the Order.
The historic cathedral, designed by Sir Christopher Wren during the late 17th century, served as the fitting venue for the ceremony.
St Paul’s has housed the Chapel of the Order of St Michael and St George since its formal dedication in 1906, where Knights and Dames Grand Cross display their heraldic banners.
King Charles has joined forces with the Duke of Kent, 90, at St Paul’s Cathedral
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Upon arrival at the cathedral, the Lady Mayor greeted the King and accompanied him to the top of the West steps, where a fanfare sounded to mark the occasion.
The Duke of Kent, who serves as Grand Master of the Order, had arrived beforehand and was waiting inside to receive His Majesty.
Prince Edward, Duke of Kent is the oldest living member of the Royal Family at 90 years old.
The two royals then proceeded together into the Chapel for the service.
King Charles walking up the steps to St Paul’s Cathedral
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After the Bidding was delivered, the formal procession departed from the Chapel and made its way to designated seats within the Sacrarium, where the remainder of the commemorative service took place.
The Order of St Michael and St George ranks among the orders of chivalry through which the monarch bestows honours annually, acting on ministerial advice.
The Prince Regent, who later became King George IV, established the Order in 1818 following the Ionian Islands coming under British protection and Malta becoming part of British Sovereignty.
King Charles III delivered a speech during the service for the Order of St Michael and St George
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The Duke of Kent is the oldest member of the Royal Family
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Initially, the honour recognised meritorious contributions to these Mediterranean territories.
Six decades later, in 1879, the Order’s scope was broadened considerably.
Today, it serves to acknowledge exceptional contributions relating to diplomatic matters and work conducted beyond British shores, reflecting the nation’s continued engagement with the wider world.
