God Save The King: Reign Of Charles III Begins

Formally Proclaimed British Monarch, He Says Deeply Aware Of 'Great Inheritance & Duties'

For more than 300 years, Britain’s kings and queens have been proclaimed sovereign in a ceremony laced with history. But on Saturday, for the first time, the public was able to see the process in action as the proclamation of King Charles III was broadcast live, weaving just a bit of modernity into a centuries-old tradition. While Charles became the new monarch automatically upon the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on Thursday, his new role was officially proclaimed on Saturday morning in a ceremony filled with pomp and procedure, which was held at St. James’s Palace, a Tudor royal residence near Buckingham Palace.

In the solemn rite, the council made the official confirmation of Charles as king, amid a number of other formalities. But perhaps the most striking moment came when so many senior members of British life in unison declared, “God save the king.” King Charles later addressed the room and the British nation, and emphasised his mother’s legacy and his commitment to continue it. “My mother gave an example of lifelong love and of selfless service,” he said. “My mother’s reign was unequaled in its duration, dedication and devotion. Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life. I am deeply aware of this great inheritance and of the duties and heavy responsibilities of sovereignty which have now passed to me.”