Archbishop pays tribute to King on anniversary of his coronation
THE Archbishop of Canterbury marked the first anniversary of the King’s coronation by praising Charles’s “sense of duty” as he returned to public-facing events following his cancer diagnosis.
The Most Rev Justin Welby said anointing and crowning Charles during the Westminster Abbey ceremony was the “privilege of a lifetime”, and he paid tribute to the King’s “openness in sharing his condition” – a “characteristic of his willingness to help and support others”.
The King attended three events last week as he resumed royal engagements with the public, indicating the positive effect of the cancer treatment he is receiving as an outpatient.
Gun salutes will be heard across the capital today in celebration of the King’s coronation, with 41 volleys fired at noon by the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery from Green Park, and an hour later the Honourable Artillery Company will fire a 62-gun salute from Tower Wharf – an extra 21 for the City of London.
Mr Welby said in a statement: “As we mark a year since the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, we celebrate their service and give thanks for their contribution to the life of our nation.
“On that historic day in Westminster Abbey, King Charles said he came not to be served but to serve – following the example of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.
“It was the privilege of a lifetime to anoint and crown His Majesty, surrounded by so many of the charities and organisations he supports, as well as hundreds of people who are serving their communities.
“The Coronation weekend inspired millions up and down the country to volunteer, and I’m delighted that the Big Help Out is returning in June, for us to get together and make a difference.
“The past year has presented the
King with some great personal challenges.
"But I have been struck by his continued sense of duty, having recently returned to royal engagements following treatment.
“His openness in sharing his condition has been characteristic of his willingness to help and support others.
“I continue to pray for King Charles, Queen Camilla and the Royal Family. May God guide, comfort and strengthen them in their service to us all.”
The head of state has held a series of events since it was announced just over a week ago that he would be returning to public-facing engagements.
His first was a visit to the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre in London last Tuesday, where he met other cancer patients and spoke of his “shock” at receiving his diagnosis, and told those who asked that he was “well”.