For much of his long tenure as heir to the throne, it was said that King Charles always wanted to be a defender of faith rather than of ‘the faith’. And although his ancient title hasn’t changed, his Coronation will, for the first time in 1,000 years, see active involvements from members of religions other than Christianity.
The Coronation Liturgy includes people of many different faiths with active roles.
Just before he takes his Coronation oath, King Charles will hear the Archbishop of Canterbury declare that the Church of England will seek to foster an environment where people of all faiths can live freely.
The Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem will present the Oil of Chrism to the Archbishop of Canterbury to complete its journey. The oil was made from olives grown there, including groves at the Monastery of St. Mary Magdalene where King Charles III’s paternal grandmother, Princess Alice, is buried.
The Coronation Regalia will be presented by members of the House of Lords who belong to different faith traditions – Judaism, Islam, Hinduism and Sikhism.
As Their Majesties leave Westminster Abbey, they will be greeted by a representatives from other faiths. King Charles will then stand before them. Members of the Jewish, Hindu, Sikh, Muslim and Buddhist communities will tell The King ”Your Majesty, as neighbours in faith, we acknowledge the value of public service. We unite with people of all faiths and beliefs in thanksgiving and in service with you for the common good.”
His Majesty will acknowledge their greeting before he departs the Abbey.
The Coronation takes place on May 6th 2023 at Westminster Abbey.
