King Charles and Duke of Kent unite at St Paul's Cathedral

King Charles attended a Service of Dedication and Remembrance at St Paul's Cathedral with the Duke of Kent, honoring the Order of St Michael and St George.

This event was particularly noteworthy because it was the first time King Charles participated in such a service since becoming the Sovereign of the Order.

The iconic cathedral, envisioned by Sir Christopher Wren in the late 1600s, proved to be a remarkable setting for the event.

Since 1906, St Paul’s has been home to the Chapel of the Order of St Michael and St George, where Knights and Dames Grand Cross proudly exhibit their heraldic banners.

Upon his arrival, the Lady Mayor welcomed King Charles at the cathedral’s entrance, leading him to the top of the West steps, where a fanfare celebrated the event.

The Duke of Kent, the Grand Master of the Order, had arrived earlier and awaited His Majesty inside.

Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, is currently the oldest member of the Royal Family at age 90.

The two royals subsequently made their way into the Chapel for the service.

Following the Bidding, the formal procession exited the Chapel and moved to their seats within the Sacrarium, where the rest of the ceremonial service unfolded.

The Order of St Michael and St George is one of the chivalric orders through which the King confers honors each year, acting on the advice of ministers.

The Order was created in 1818 by the Prince Regent, who later became King George IV, after the Ionian Islands came under British protection and Malta joined the British dominion.

The honor originally recognized distinguished service in these Mediterranean regions.

In 1879, six decades later, the Order's remit was significantly expanded.

Now, the Order acknowledges outstanding contributions in the arena of diplomacy and efforts made outside the United Kingdom, highlighting the nation's ongoing global involvement.