Charles and William King share intimate moment at significant event
Updating the Royal Tradition: King Charles and Prince William's Historic Gathering
On a momentous Friday, King Charles III and his son, Prince William, shared a special, private moment before participating in a significant ceremony steeped in centuries-old tradition. Adorned in crimson robes, they warmly greeted each other, with the King sending a reassuring gesture by patting his son's arm, signaling the start of the Order of the Bath service at Westminster Abbey.
This ceremony, celebrating the 300th anniversary of the order, saw Charles, for the first time, as the sovereign. Traditionally held every four years, this service was a testament to the order's enduring significance.
As part of the historic event, Prince William was installed as the Great Master, an honor reserved for members of the military or Civil Service who have demonstrated outstanding service. Interestingly, Charles had previously held this role for nearly five decades. However, he passed this responsibility onto his son on St. George's Day last year.
Princess Kate was rewarded for her public service and commitment to the arts by being appointed the first Royal Companion in the Order of the Companions of Honour – a first in the Order's history. Meanwhile, Queen Camilla was presented with the prestigious title of Grand Master and First or Principal Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.
Five new Knights Grand Cross were also installed during the ceremony at the Lady Chapel of King Henry VII within the abbey. These esteemed individuals include Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, Admiral Philip Jones, General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith, Lord Young, and Sir Tom Scholar.
The Order of the Bath, founded by King George I in 1725, has its roots in the eighth century when it was believed that the ritual washing preceding the knighthood conferment symbolized purification, similar to the baptismal cleansing. Candidates underwent various rituals, including fasting, praying, vigils, and bathing, to prepare themselves spiritually and physically for knighthood.
Learn more from our website: Two firefighters and one other person die in fire** | Laurence Fox denies encouraging others to damage ULEZ cameras**
Stay connected with us for the latest updates follow us now**
The name "Order of the Bath" originated from this ritualistic bathing, tracing its roots back to ancient practices. Despite numerous adaptations throughout its history, the Order of the Bath remains a symbol of distinguished service, celebrating its 300th anniversary as an enduring part of British honors and society.
Despite the solemnity of the Order of the Bath ceremony, King Charles III and Prince William found a moment for personal connection, a warm gesture that broke the formality of the war-like robes they wore. Amidst the celebration of distinguished service, the historic gathering also incorporated an element of entertainment as Princess Kate's appointment as the first Royal Companion in the Order of the Companions of Honour marked a new chapter in the Richter scale of entertainment within the royal family.
