I've been to a few of these, as well as the reception that follows at Marlborough House, and they really are spectacular events. Watching on as the abbey fills with the bustling energy, tradition and distinctive dress of various cultures, and the powerful feeling of a shared passion and hope for the future is quite overwhelming. The focus is on opportunity and youth, with musical performances and readings reflecting that.
The day was "treasured" by the late Queen Elizabeth II. The Commonwealth was very much a legacy project that she nurtured and 2024 marks the organisation's 75th anniversary.
Generally, the service is also a great opportunity to see senior royals side by side. This year, Queen Camilla led the celebrations, accompanied by Prince William, Princess Anne, and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.
And while we didn't see the Princess of Wales, who is still recovering from abdominal surgery, we did get a glimpse of the King. Not in person, but delivering his message in a pre-recorded address played in the abbey and broadcast live on the BBC.
This appearance was part of a regular flow of videos and photos of the King that are trickling through at a drumbeat pace from Buckingham Palace. The message is clear: While Charles' ongoing cancer treatment may be preventing him from publicfacing duties, he is still working (and reading and enjoying thousands of get-well cards), and wants the public to see him well and positive.
What's more, plans for Charles and Camilla's tour to Australia (and probably Aotearoa) are definitely in progress, with Aussie PM Anthony Albanese announcing his request for states and territories to put in their pitches for a potential October visit.
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