The Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations continued this morning with an exquisitely planned Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral.
Unfortunately, Her Majesty was unable to attend, with Palace aides citing physical discomfort after yesterday's efforts. Aides spent weeks devising plans which would allow HM to attend comfortably and it was with "great reluctance" the Queen made the decision last night not to join her family this morning. Despite her absence, HM's presence was felt from beginning to end and I have no doubt she had the opportunity to watch from Windsor.
The Duke and Duchess arriving to cheers.
A large gathering of immediate and extended family were in attendance.
The State Trumpeters of the Household Cavalry heralded royal arrivals.
Due to a positive Covid-19 diagnosis, the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby was forced to miss the service. In a statement he said: "I am deeply saddened to be missing the historic celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. However, I will be praying for the Queen and giving thanks for her extraordinary 70 years of service to us all. I will also be praying for our nation at this time of celebration and thanksgiving. May the Queen’s example bring us together in unity and care for one another." The service was conducted by the Very Reverend David Ison, Dean of St Paul’s, who gave the bidding. The Dean of the Chapels Royal, the Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dame Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London, gave the collect and the blessing.
The Duke and Duchess are greeted by the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall. Camilla Tominey reports Charles blew Kate an air kiss when he saw her.
The royal procession.
St Paul's said the service was planned to "include Bible readings, anthems, prayers and congregational hymns, expressing thankfulness for the Queen’s reign, faith and service; desire to foster unity and peace amongst all peoples; and commitment to care for God’s creation".
The theme of public service was at the heart of today’s event.
More than 400 people were invited in recognition of their contribution to public life at both a community and national level. These guests have all been recipients of honours in the New Year or Birthday Honours lists, many for their work throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. Drawn from all four nations of the United Kingdom, they included NHS and key workers, teaching staff, public servants, and representatives from the Armed Forces, charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups.
Guests included the Prime Minister, members of the Cabinet, First Ministers of the devolved governments, Leaders of the Opposition, as well as former Prime Ministers, representatives from the United Kingdom Overseas Territories and governors-general, along with high commissioners and ambassadors from across the world. A large number of representatives of world faiths were in attendance.
The sermon brought smiles, much to the amusement of family members:
'Now we all know that Her Majesty likes horse racing and I imagine Your Majesty will be watching this on the television. I don't have any great tips for the Derby tomorrow, but since the scriptures describe life as a race set before us, let me observe that your long reign reflects the distance of Aintree more than the sprints of Epsom. Certainly, less dressage than most people imagine. But with endurance, through times of change and challenge, joy and sorrow, you continues to offer yourself in the service of our country and the commonwealth. Your Majesty, we’re sorry you’re not with us this morning in person, but we are so glad you are still in the saddle. And we are all glad that there is still more to come. 'auls to their seats.'
There is footage of the sermon towards the end of this video.
Gorgeous flowers were arranged by the Church of England Flower Arrangers Association. The flowers are in red, white and blue colour palettes and include fresias, gerbera, eustoma (commonly known as lisianthus), antirrhinum (commonly known as snapdragons), carnations and eryngium (commonly known as sea holly).
Buckingham Palace said: "Before and after the service, St Paul’s Cathedral Guild of Ringers will ring ‘Stedman Cinques’. This time they will be joined by Great Paul, the largest church bell in the UK weighing more than 16 tons. The service of thanksgiving will be the first royal occasion it has been rung since its restoration in 2021."
The Duke and Duchess departing for a Guildhall luncheon.
Click here to read the order of service.
St Paul's Cathedral is one of the most famous and most recognizable sights of London, with its dome framed by the spires of Wren's City churches dominating the skyline for 300 years. At 365 feet (111 m) high, it was the tallest building in London from 1710 to 1962, and its dome is also among the highest in the world. In terms of area, St Paul's is the second largest church building in the United Kingdom after Liverpool Cathedral.
In terms of historical significance, the iconic 'St Paul's Survives' taken during the Blitz in 1940 remains an enduring image from WWII.
Charles and Diana were married there in 1981.
In fact, St Paul's has historic jubilee connections dating all the way back to Queen Victoria.
More from St Paul's:
'On the bank holiday of 22 June 1897, Queen Victoria’s National Service of Thanksgiving was held outside St Paul’s at the foot of the west steps.
Because Victoria was so frail, she remained in her carriage throughout the ceremony where the clergy joined her, surrounded by dignitaries and troops from around the Empire. At only twenty minutes long, the ceremony consisted of a performance of a Te Deum by a huge orchestra and choir, prayers, benediction and the ‘Old Hundredth’.
The procession carrying the Queen and her guests to St Paul’s was seventeen carriages long and included members of her own Royal Family as well as others from around the world. Queen Victoria travelled in a carriage pulled by eight cream horses and was accompanied by her third daughter, Helena, Princess Christian of Schleswig-Holstein and the Princess of Wales (later Queen Alexandra).
After the ceremony, the Queen toured a large area of London on her way back to Buckingham Palace, stopping at Mansion House to be welcomed into the City of London by the Lord Mayor. The day was extremely popular with the people of Britain and 25,000 seats had to be erected along the six-mile processional route. There was also special seating at St Paul’s, which had audience seating constructed at the top of the west steps creating a marvellous view of the service. The dome was also in the spotlight – lit up by searchlights from the roofs of the surrounding warehouses.
The Jubilee celebrations ended up lasting a fortnight, despite Queen Victoria originally requesting they last only one day. These celebrations included military reviews, a garden party at Buckingham Palace, concerts, a state banquet and receptions as well as numerous public celebrations. The Poet Laureate at the time, Mr Alfred Austin, also presented Queen Victoria with a specially written poem entitled ‘Victoria’.
The Dean of St Paul’s, the Very Reverend Dr David Ison, said: "It is a great honour to hold a Service of Thanksgiving for the Reign of Her Majesty The Queen and to celebrate her 70 years of service to the UK and the Commonwealth. We are also delighted to open a brand new exhibition documenting previous Jubilee celebrations across three centuries. From rich and beautiful textiles to treasured photographs and scrapbooks, the story emerges of the excitement and anticipation of each Jubilee celebration, and the unique role that St Paul’s holds in ceremonial occasions. Along with our community outreach programmes and late opening events, our Jubilee exhibition is a fitting way to mark this special occasion."
The exhibition 'Jubilee: St Paul’s, the Monarch and the Changing World' explores the grand ceremonial occasions held at the Cathedral to commemorate the Royal Jubilees of four British monarchs: George III, Victoria, George V and Elizabeth II.
‘There was a tremendous atmosphere of expectancy as we took our positions in the Abbey…After the arrival of the Queen Mother we sat agog as six maids appeared armed with carpet sweepers. To much amusement they proceeded to sweep the Abbey from end to end and the laughter they provoked helped to reduce the tension.’
‘The ceremony itself is steeped in history and tradition but I like to think that the musical content added immeasurably to the service. I still recall the moment of crowning as we strained our necks to see what was going on.’
After a long and eventful day, there was one more exciting event in store: ‘The Masters took us over to the Cathedral and we all stood outside on the Stone Gallery to watch the fireworks from the South Bank across the River Thames….We had enjoyed the experience of a lifetime and these memories are still bright to me after all these years.’
Her Majesty on the day of the Coronation.
If you have the time, today is certainly a fitting time to relive the event.
The Duchess wore a lovely summery lemon dress by Emilia Wickstead. The hue is one often favoured by Her Majesty.
Kate completed the look with her Gianvito Rossi pumps in bisque suede. Kate also carried a new clutch.
I'll be updating with details on the other royal ladies shortly. It was a fabulous day for fashion.
Well, this is a pretty and quite elegant look on the Duchess. I'm pleased that she wore a straightforward dress, not a dressy coat or a dress styled like a coat, since I've gotten a little tired of those, finding them a bit predictable and staid these days. I love the crossover effect at the waist, since I've always appreciated that sort of design element. The butter-yellow shade isn't my personal favorite, but the Duchess likes it and wears it well. And even though style of hat doesn't excite me, this one works very well with the dress. The whole ensemble is very attractive.
ReplyDeleteI'm going to comment here on Meghan Sussex's look, rather than post comments on two different sites. I can't quite tell what color it was; one article I saw said pale lilac, but the light was possibly deceiving, and I'm not sure. However, I think that MS would have looked better in another style of coat -- a fitted sheath style, with a slimmer skirt and without a belt. The belt and A-line skirt weren't as flattering on her as the outfit should have been. And I would have liked to see a more interesting hat. Yesterday's spectacular example sort of raised my expectations, so I was a bit disappointed in this one.
Alternatively, a genuinely full and swingy skirt on the coat would have worked well with the belt. Somehow, the A-line skirt fell in between the possibilities in a not-so-flattering way. I've always been of the opinion that stiff, A-line skirts don't really look good on anyone and avoid them in my own wardrobe.
I like this color for a celebration. Her tailoring is perfect. Love her hair and hat. At first I wasn't sure about the dress design, but it has grown on me. The head shots show not a hair out of place. She makes it look effortless.
ReplyDeleteShe really does make it look effortless Sarah! It is a stunning look, elegant in its simplicity and lines. A nice switch up of coat dresses, and a beautiful silhouette.
DeleteIt is remarkable indeed how perfect she always looks. So put together. I don't know how she manages. Tailoring is impeccable, of course.
DeleteThis dress is so pretty, such a soft buttery yellow color. Really, really pretty. I actually really love Zara's look today and Bea's look too. WHAT a photo of "The Blitz", it gave me chills.
ReplyDeleteI agree Tammy, it's just a really pretty look! I agree about Zara's look, its so her style to mix her colors and be successful. Bea is stepping up her dressing these days and I quite like it as well, very flattering! To me though the other stars of the day were the Duchess of Wessex and Lady Louise!! Both ladies were beautiful and Lady Louise is growing to such a lovely young lady. She was dressed very appropriately for her age and for the occasion.
DeleteP.S. Princess Anne is often overlooked on the style front, but today she should be given very honorable mention, because that coat, the hat and the color suited her very well!
DeleteYes, that's quite a picture. I've seen it so many times that I skimmed over it this time, but your comment caused me to go back and look again. It's genuinely moving.
DeleteI agree about Beatrice. I never used to watch for her, but since she married, she has had very flattering outfits and looks very well
DeleteWow! She looks absolutely radiant!!! 💛
ReplyDelete-FloridaGirl
I feel very sorry for the Queen. I'm afraid that "experiencing some discomfort" is the euphemistic expression for her being in pain and that they don't find something that brings her lasting relief. Certainly she will be very happy to see how everybody is doing their best to bring the celebrations to full success. Her family will be of great comfort to her, perhaps even little Lilibet.
ReplyDeleteEverything was magnificent!! Kate looked resplendent as usual and I love her more modern look she is sporting lately. My only ouch, was I don’t like the way she pairs taupe heels with all her yellow outfits. I think it makes the yellow appear dirty instead of crisp. I would have loved the crown of the hat to have been white with some beautiful white lacy or white patent leather heels. The white would’ve really made the lemon pop.
ReplyDeleteQuestion for Charlotte or any reader: Why are some ceremonial royal events held at Westminster Abbey and others at St. Paul's Cathedral? Is there a difference between the types of events held at each building?
ReplyDeleteSt Pauls is bigger and more spaceous making it more suitable for large gatherings or performances.
DeleteI think it's partly a matter of capacity, except when it comes to coronations, which have been held at Westminster for nearly 1000 years. I know that St Paul's was chosen for Prince Charles's wedding to Diana Spencer for reasons of size, whereas the smaller guest list for Prince Andrew's wedding to Sarah Ferguson meant that it could be held at Westminster. Westminster is a "royal peculiar," so normally, special royal events would be held there if the number of prospective guests didn't dictate either a larger or a smaller space.
DeleteOn the other hand, St Paul's is essentially the "national cathedral," so it would make sense to hold a service of "national thanksgiving" there.
I am sure someone knows the answer to your question. The only thing I remember, is Diana wanted to marry Charles at The Abbey, and they had to wed at St. Paul's because it was bigger and they needed the seating for all of the international guests.
DeleteSt. Paul’s was used because it was a State occasion. Charles & Diana’s wedding was also held there because it was a Full State occasion as opposed to William & Kate’s which was only a semi-state occasion as William was not Prince of Wales at the time (unlike his father when he got married). Coronations and Funerals are excepted from this when it comes to Royal events.
DeleteThere are also the logistical aspect. If there will be a procession and crowds along the way, Westminster is preferred since the route is easier to secure and don’t cause as much disruption. (Charles and Diana’s wedding being the exception, I don’t think anybody cared about the amount of distuption) Whereas with a thanksgiving service like yesterday it doesn’t matter.
DeleteI must say ALL the ladies looked splendid. Lady Louise is becoming a beautiful royal lady. Both Eugenie and Beatrice have come a long way being very stylish women. Especially Beatrice is just beautiful and radiant since her marriage to Eddo! And then Kate needs no words, her usual perfection. I love her primrose yellow which is a nod to the queen and the same colour the Queen wore to Kate and Williams wedding.
ReplyDeleteKate looked stunning and elegant. We are so lucky to have her and William 😀
ReplyDeleteIs there any where we can view the service in entirety?
ReplyDeleteNot my favorite look today, I dislike the “cross” on the front, it has a 40’s vibe that isn’t flattering as she’s so slim. I agree with the other reader on the taupe shoes (celticgirl)
ReplyDeleteLovely, as usual, Charlotte! I look forward to the additional pictures of the other ladies. From what I've seen so far, I absolutely love Lady Louise's dress. She has grown into quite a lovely young woman.
ReplyDeleteI am REALLY, REALLY loving all of the celebrations! Not just seeing Catherine, but seeing other true, British Royals.
ReplyDeleteLady Louise especially has been a joy. She’s blossomed into a lovely young woman & I look forward to seeing more of her. I’ve always like her mother & and am hoping to see more of her too.
I have all the makings for a “big lunch” for 1 tomorrow! That includes 3 brands of gin - I’m doing my own tasting party; I’ll be drinking with The Queen!
Enjoy your luncheon, Lynn! 🥗🍾😉 I'll join you as it's my birthday today. Cheers!
DeleteHappy Birthday Zora, hope you enjoyed your day!!
DeleteLove it! Do tell your 3 choices. Is Aviation included? I love it mainly because I think Ryan Reynolds is going to knock on my door and ask me what I think of it. And I love how he shameless has a POS in all of his movies.
DeleteHappy B-day Zora!
Thank you Charlotte for all these amazing posts! It was a good service and so well prepared. I am sorry the Queen couldn't be there but glad she could rest and watch it on TV. I like Kate dress, I think this yellow is a tribute to the Queen. And I also noticed that yesterday they were in a shades of blue, matching the Queen dress! Sophie was in pink yesterday and I think was a tribute to the Queen too as one of her fav. colour.
ReplyDeleteAs for Kate dress today, it didn't crease at all...Wow...Does anyone know the type of fabric/material is made of?
And is P. William's tight the same type as P. Charles' one? Tks tks.
What a lovely service it must have been! Charles looked really moved. HM's absence was sad but I think it was a wise decision not to take part if she felt it would be too much.
ReplyDeleteI agree with everyone saying Kate looked perfect. That hat!!! and as always, her beautiful smile was her best adornment. My other favourite looks were those of Princess Anne, Sophie and Lady Louise (l love the way mother and daughter match each other)!
Thank you for the superb coverage, Charlotte!
I thought Catherine looked beautiful. She can pull off soft yellow or bold! It’s a nice dress design and hat. The earrings look beautiful, too. It was a real treat to see so many of the family members. Thanks Charlotte! Sue
ReplyDeleteCatherine looked amazing both yesterday and today, as usual. And I love that Zara and her husband color coordinate! Just like prom. 💕
ReplyDeleteOne word on The Duchess today. Perfection. Nice nod to The Queen by wearing her earrings. They all looked very well today especially the York sisters and Lady Louise. Something tells me that Zara gets the party started. Apart from wishing her well and good health, I really hope this weekend will draw a line under the last few years and there will be healing in The Queens family. S. ☺
ReplyDeleteOh my word! I have complained about all of the Wickstead lately, because I find it all so drab...then THIS happened!! How fabulous does she look today???
ReplyDeleteKate's style today was perfection. The hat is very pretty (albeit, she does have one or two that are similar) and yes, white shoes could have made the yellow 'pop' better. Perhaps she could have added a pearl and diamond brooch. :-)
ReplyDeleteI have to say, while we didn't see all of the ladies looks yesterday, today everyone looked fabulous. Loved Beatrice in blue (wow, it really showed off her figure), Zara,'s color choice and hat were stunning, yes, Princess Anne caught my eye as well, and then Sophie and Lady Louise looked lovely (especially together). I would have like to see Eugenie's dress better, the neckline and back looked interesting. And lest I forget Lady Sarah Chatto just does it so well.
I liked the criss cross on Kate's dress - why not emphasize that tiny waist? - but did think it strange that the dress looked like it had a packet in the front but that it zipped up in the back. Just wondering why that was a design element. Lastly, I always like to think about where Kate will wear this dress next. Clearly, it would be perfect for an overseas tour next year and lovely at a garden party.
Kate looked gorgeous in Yellow so did Meghan in her white outfit. Hope the Queen gets the much needed rest she deserves but sad she's not here. Wish Harry and Meghan were sitting beside Charles and Wills and Kate and Zara :(
ReplyDeleteI love Catherine's dress! Was this the hat she wore to Harry and Meghan's wedding? It looks familiar.
ReplyDeleteKate's style today was perfection. The hat is very pretty she radiant at sunshine ball zara pink dress was very beautiful one her princess anne has dramatic v green outfit lady louise is all f=grow up
ReplyDeleteCatherine looked outstanding, the lemon color is divine. I love the feature at the waist of the crossover, adding interest. Her hat and accessories looked fabulous. Loved the diamond and pearl drop earrings, beautiful. The Princess Royal looked lovely, her outfit and choice of jewels were perfect.
ReplyDelete