The upcoming Easter festivities will present an unusual scenario for King Charles III, who is scheduled to partake in the traditions in a unique manner this year.
As per a report from The Telegraph, the 75-year-old King will be seated separately from other attendees at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor during the royal Easter service on Sunday, March 31. Additionally, he is expected to forego the subsequent reception and private family Easter lunch.
This decision was taken with King Charles’s wellbeing in mind as he continues to receive treatment for cancer. The modifications to his Easter routine have been termed “gentile steps” towards resuming his royal responsibilities.
Kingly duties aside, King Charles will be accompanied by Queen Camilla during the service, with special arrangements to ensure a setting conducive to his health needs.
A statement from Buckingham Palace: https://t.co/zmYuaWBKw6
Samir Hussein pic.twitter.com/xypBLHHQJb — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) February 5, 2024
According to sources from the palace, this is a positive indicator that King Charles is on the mend. Since disclosing his cancer diagnosis in February, he hasn’t been present at public events outside Buckingham Palace.
Parallel to the King’s gradual public re-entry, Kate Middleton, who also recently made her own cancer diagnosis public, will not be in attendance at the Easter service. The Princess of Wales, who has commenced chemotherapy, has asked for the public’s respect for privacy during this challenging period as she, along with Prince William, care for their three young children.
Indeed, this year, the Royal Easter service will witness the absence of the Princess of Wales and adjusted attendance by the monarch.
Next: Queen Camilla Fills in for King Charles at Traditional Ceremony in a Royal First
FAQ
- Why will King Charles sit apart from other attendees at the Easter service?
King Charles will sit apart due to health precautions as he continues to undergo treatment for cancer. - Will King Charles participate in the post-service reception and Easter lunch?
No, he has opted out of these events for health reasons. - Is Queen Camilla expected to accompany King Charles at the Easter service?
Yes, Queen Camilla will be seated next to King Charles during the service. - Has King Charles attended any public events since his cancer diagnosis announcement?
No, he hasn’t attended any public events outside Buckingham Palace since the announcement in February. - Will Kate Middleton attend the Easter service?
No, due to her own health situation and recent cancer diagnosis, Kate Middleton will not be attending the service.
Conclusion
While traditions are significantly revered by the Royal Family, the health and safety of its members take precedence. This year’s Easter service will be marked by the notable adaptations for King Charles III and the absence of the Princess of Wales, reflective of the challenging health issues they are currently facing. These adaptations highlight the Royal Family’s ability to balance duty with personal health requirements, even during significant ceremonial occasions.