The Coronation: Thrones and Traditions

Westminster Abbey is where the Coronation had occurred for the last 900 years according to the United Kingdom website.  It is a “solemn and religious” occasion the site says and has been pretty much the same for all of these years. The ceremony is conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Royal Archives photo

According to protocol, the new Sovereign takes his or her position as the King or Queen immediately after the loss of the former Sovereign. In the case, when Queen Elizabeth II died, her son, Charles became King.   After a period of mourning, the new King or Queen will celebrate with a coronation and crowning event. In this case it has been months since the loss of QEII and now, the celebration.   This ceremony will be “rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry” according  to the Royal UK site.

Royal Throne of England. Royal Archives photo

“By tradition, ceremonial chairs and thrones will be used for different parts of the coronation event.  The most significant chair will be the “Coronation Chair”. In that seat the new King will sit and receive his crown. The first coronation of King Edward II used the Baltic Oak chair which was made over 700 years ago.  Their Majesties from this event, King Charles and  Queen Camilla Consort, will use the St. Edward’s Chair. There are different thrones and each have its own story such as that of George VI and Queen Elizabeth’s throne.  Now King Charles will have his name engraved on the use of a throne as well. Also, needlework is a part of the stitching of the cloth which is a significant task.

This is quite an event for the ages. It has not occurred since Queen Elizabeth  II was crowned Queen of England and she served over 70 years. 

London will have the Coronation on Saturday May 6th and for several days following, lunches, parties and concerts across the Commonwealth will occur.

See you tomorrow,

Nan

Two scriptures about kings… God is the absolute Sovereign. He appoints kings for the earth.

Blessed be the LORD thy God, which delighted in thee to set thee on his throne, to be king for the LORD thy God: because thy God loved Israel, to establish them for ever, therefore made he thee king over them, to do judgment and justice. 2 Chronicles

“And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:” Daniel 2:21

Sources: Royal Archives photos, Royal. uk website information, King James Bible online.