King Charles III invites the world to pledge their allegiance to him during his coronation next Sunday.
Westminster Abbey adds a new item for the royal ceremony that will mark the official ascension of the British monarch following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022.
During the ritual at Westminster Abbey, citizens around the world are asked to swear their allegiance to the king during a “tribute to the people”.
The Archbishop of Canterbury will enlist a “choir of millions” calling on “all who so wish, in the Abbey and elsewhere” to take an oath.
People across the British Empire will join them and say: “I swear I will pay true allegiance to Your Majesty and your heirs and successors according to law. May God help me.”
Jon Super via Associated Press
A fanfare will follow and the Archbishop will say, “God save the King.” In response, the public will shout, “God save King Charles.” Long live King Charles. May the king live forever.”
The People’s Pledge will replace the traditional “peer homage,” which only included those of royal heritage.
According to the Bishop of Canterbury, the coronation of King Charles will “recognize and celebrate tradition” and “feature new elements that reflect the diversity of our society today”.
These modern elements include a hymn sung in Welsh, Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic, and a larger role for female Church of England clergy.
