King’s Coronation! Debates aside, it was historical, even with the despondency among people worldwide. I understand that the blog title can be critiqued from various angles. Quick judgement is often easy, but the task ahead for every leader is strenuous.
I liked the theme of the religious ceremony: Called to Serve. The three words are based on the words of Jesus Christ, “I have come not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28, Mark 10:45 & John 13:1-17). And these were the opening words uttered twice by the new King Charles III.
The homily echoed a similar line of thoughts. “We crown a king to serve… with power comes the duty to serve,” said Revered Justin Welby, the archbishop of Canterbury, who conducted the King’s coronation. The archbishop emphasised King’s interests in building communities and supporting charities, among other important activities of the British crown. The religious head lifted prayers that God may give the new King the grace to find perfect freedom in service. Indeed, the words of the opening prayer to “discover the ways of gentleness and paths to peace” resonated with the need of the hour.
The regalia and symbolism highlighted the glamour and power – the crown, robe, sceptre, sword, and royal ring. But the words that accompanied the symbols reiterated the focus on service. The symbols invited the King to “bravely” advocate for those in need, stop the growth of inequality, offer mercy, resist evil, and defend good.
I enjoyed The Tablet editorial title: Called to Serve the Common Good. There is a need for a shift in focus to view the present time, notwithstanding the issues between the Church of England and Catholics. Queen Elizabeth II was “revered for what she was, steady and stoical.” Henceforth, King Charles III will be judged by “what he does.” (May 6, 2023). The critical difference will be in the King’s support towards the charitable sector, building civil society and cultivating social capital needed for a multi-ethnic mix. The masses, even those on the margins, will continue celebrating a monarch who is the servant of the common good.
The challenge to serve others remains a pivotal journey – an aspired destination based on the example of Jesus Christ.
I remain a hopeful Christian – with a call to serve. Serving others can turn the world around into a mystical fellowship of people.
Love it!
Brilliantly captured!
Called to serve – life certainly would be turned upside down if this was a core value held by each person – a good value to embrace in all aspects of life.
I think King Charles III has always welcomed all faiths and will be a sensitive King to his subjects – he’s had the best role model in his mama!
Amen! Let serving others with sensitivity reign high.