The King participated in a ceremony at St Paul’s Cathedral to recognize individuals who have shown outstanding dedication while serving abroad. This marked Charles’ inaugural Service of Dedication and Commemoration for the Order of St Michael and St George as King on the same day.
The distinguished order acknowledges exceptional service in foreign countries or in relation to foreign and Commonwealth affairs. Annually, the King confers honors on individuals based on the Prime Minister’s recommendations, as the order operates within the realm of chivalry. The King’s arrival was heralded by state trumpeters performing a fanfare on the cathedral’s west steps.
Upon arrival, Charles was greeted by the Right Honourable Lady Mayor of the City of London, Dame Susan Langley. Adorned in a blue cloak, Charles was then escorted inside by the Duke of Kent, who holds the role of Grand Master of the Order. During the hour-long service, Charles processed through the cathedral alongside various attendees, including a choir, His Majesty’s Body Guard of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms, and the Lady Mayor carrying the Pearl Sword.
Positioned behind an altar in the dome, Charles solemnly declared, “Let us remember before God, members of the Order lately departed.” Sir Jonathan Taylor, Gentleman Usher of the Blue Rod, read out a list of deceased members since the previous ceremony, including notable figures like British diplomat Sir Crispin Tickell and former British ambassador to Germany Christopher Mallaby.
As the service concluded, a fanfare echoed through the cathedral, prompting the congregation to rise and sing the national anthem. The procession then made its way back through the cathedral, with Charles departing around midday. Established in 1818 by the Prince Regent, later King George IV, the order commemorated the Ionian Islands falling under British protection and Malta becoming a British possession.
Initially created to honor the contributions of citizens in Malta and the Ionian Islands, the Service of Dedication and Commemoration occurs every four years at St Paul’s Cathedral.