In a historic first, female clergy will play a prominent role in the Coronation of King Charles III, organisers have confirmed. The service, which will be held at Westminster Abbey, will also see the public invited to swear allegiance to the monarch in a new 'homage of the people'.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, described the ceremony as one that will 'recognise and celebrate tradition' while containing 'new elements that reflect the diversity of our contemporary society'. Among the changes, the traditional homage of peers will be replaced by a public pledge, allowing people around the world to join a 'chorus of millions' in swearing loyalty to the King and his heirs.
The order of service will include a call for all who desire to say: '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 proclaim 'God save the King', with the congregation and viewers asked to respond: 'God save King Charles. Long live King Charles. May the King live forever.'
Other firsts include the active participation of religious leaders from other faiths, such as Muslim, Hindu, Jewish, and Sikh peers presenting pieces of the coronation regalia. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, a practising Hindu, will read from the biblical book of Colossians. The blessing will be shared by leaders of different Christian denominations for the first time, including Catholic Cardinal Vincent Nichols.
Despite these changes, the three oaths the King will take remain unchanged, including the promise to maintain 'the Protestant Reformed Religion'. However, the Archbishop of Canterbury will provide a preface to contextualise the oaths, noting that the Church of England seeks to create an environment where 'people of all faiths and beliefs may live freely'.
