Amid the familiar faces that paraded this year to St. George’s Chapel in Windsor to celebrate Easter, there was one that this time drew more attention than usual: James, the young Earl of Wessex.
At the age of 17 and a scarce presence in the events of the royal family, the youngest son of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh reappeared this April 20 in one of the most traditional events of the Windsor calendar.
James Earl of Wessex at Easter Mass
This year, King Charles and Queen Camilla, still in the midst of their medical commitments and following a state visit to Italy, led the ceremony.
Also in attendance were the King’s three siblings: Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward, James’ father.
James arrived accompanied by his parents, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and was one of the youngest members present at the ceremony.
Neither William nor Kate attended this year, as they opted to spend the holiday in Norfolk with their children.
James’ figure stood out, the young man is now taller than his father and the physical change is noticeable.
James is one of the most enigmatic young royals. Although he is the grandson of the late Queen Elizabeth II, he is not a prince.
When James was born in 2007, he was entitled to the “Her Royal Highness” treatment, but Edward and Sophie decided not to use that title for their children. The idea was to give them a freer childhood, without the weight of a title that would condition their public life from a young age.
And so it has been. His sister, Lady Louise, has also grown up out of the spotlight, and James has had few official appearances: a funeral, a Christmas walk at Sandringham, and now this Easter at Windsor.
His role is discreet, his exposure minimal, but his presence alone continues to generate curiosity.
Today he is fifteenth in the line of succession, far from the responsibilities of those who lead the institution, but close enough to be part of the family portrait when the occasion calls for it.
While many see him for the first time and wonder who is this tall and serious young man next to Sophie and Edward, James represents the new generation of royalty.