The heir to the throne, Prince William, will have the same role as Prince Philip in 1953: he will kneel before the king for the “Homage of Royal Blood”. William will be the only member of the family to speak during the ceremony. A few words that are full of meaning.
With preparations in full swing, the British royal family is preparing for the coronation of King Charles this Saturday, May 6, 2023. Little by little it is becoming known what will be the role of each of the members of the Windsors in the ceremony that will take place 70 years after that of Queen Elizabeth II.
Prince William’s role at the coronation
Prince William’s role at his father’s coronation will be key. Kate Middleton’s husband will have to do the “Homage to the Royal Blood”, but what is this tradition about?
According to the liturgy of the rite, approved by the Church of England, the “Homage of the royal blood” is the oath that William must say. The Prince of Wales will kneel before his father, and pronounce these words: “I, William, Prince of Wales, swear allegiance, fidelity and devotion to you, and I will serve you as a faithful vassal. So help me God.”
Similar words to those spoken by Prince Philip on June 2, 1953, at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The Duke of Edinburgh promised the monarch to also be her “servant on earth”, a fragment removed from William’s oath.
William will be the only member of the royal family to speak during the ceremony, and the only one to pay his respects to the king, while his son George will have the role of page boy.
Following William’s oath is the “Homage of The People,” which is also led by the Archbishop of Canterbury. This is a new part of the coronation, which invites the general public to declare: “I swear that I will pay true allegiance to Your Majesty, and to your heirs and successors according to law. So help me God.”
The Archbishop will then say, “Got save the King,” inviting the public to respond, “God save King Charles. Long live King Charles. May The King live forever.”