05/05/2023
Expressing his hopes for the Coronation, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd Justin Welby, said:
“The Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla promises to be a beautiful, joyful and historic occasion. People can certainly expect to be struck by the majesty and sacred wonder of the service, but also to be invited to pause and reflect. To reflect on our past, our future and, as we pray for our new sovereign, on our own lives and how we too are called to serve others.
“This service reaches deep into our nation’s Christian history. From the ancient and sacred act of anointing monarchs, to the use of the sixth-century St Augustine Gospels, the service will link us in a profound way with our national story. But this is not simply history: I hope the service offers people an opportunity to hear the living words of God, which bring good news to every person in every generation.
“I also hope and pray that the Coronation will serve as a powerful reflection and celebration of who we are today, in all our wonderful diversity.
“So I will be praying that everyone who shares in this service – in the Abbey, across the country and beyond – will find ancient wisdom and new hope. I pray that it inspires us all, like The King and Queen, to live our lives in service to others.”