King Charles III marked a significant moment in his reign on May 7, 2026, by attending the Order of St. Michael and St. George ceremony at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. This occasion held particular importance, as it was the first time the King was participating as the reigning monarch since the ceremony occurs once every four years.
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Accompanying King Charles on this notable occasion was his first cousin, Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, who, at 90 years old, rarely makes appearances in public. This appearance was especially noteworthy not just because of his familial connection to the King, but also because the Duke serves as the Grand Master of the Order. Although he arrived at the cathedral using a wheelchair at times due to his age, he was seen walking unaided at various points during the ceremony, demonstrating his commitment to this prestigious event.
The Order of St. Michael and St. George dates back to 1818, originally established to honour distinguished citizens from the Ionian Islands, which were under British protection at that time. Today, the Order is bestowed upon individuals who have exhibited exceptional service in foreign countries or in relation to Commonwealth affairs, as detailed on the official British Royal Family website.
Throughout the hour-long service at St. Paul’s, the King was joined by members of His Majesty’s Body Guard of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms, a choir, and other dignitaries, including the Right Honourable Lady Mayor of the City of London, Dame Susan Langley. At one poignant moment in the ceremony, King Charles reflected on the contributions of former members by saying, “Let us remember before God, members of the Order lately departed.” This was followed by a reading of names of those who had passed away since the last ceremony, delivered by Sir Jonathan Taylor, Gentleman Usher of the Blue Rod.
In fact, despite his limited public appearances, the Duke’s presence was further highlighted as he had recently attended a gathering at Buckingham Palace in April to commemorate what would have been Queen Elizabeth II’s 100th birthday. During that occasion, he was joined by his sister, Princess Alexandra, and several prominent members of the royal family, including King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Prince William along with Catherine, Princess of Wales.
The Duke of Kent is the oldest living member of the royal family alongside his sister, who is 89 years old. They are the offspring of Prince George, the late Duke of Kent, and Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark. The Duke also has a younger brother, Prince Michael of Kent, making the trio first cousins to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
While both Princess Alexandra and Prince Michael have scaled back their royal engagements, the Duke of Kent continues to be active in royal duties. According to The Court Circular, 2026 has already seen him partake in over a dozen royal engagements, illustrating his ongoing commitment to royal service despite his advancing years.
The ceremony at St. Paul’s Cathedral not only served as a platform for recognising remarkable contributions by various individuals but also highlighted the unity and continuity of the British royal family, particularly during a time when the monarchy navigates new challenges and evolving public expectations.
In summary, King Charles III’s participation in the Order of St. Michael and St. George ceremony, with an esteemed yet infrequently seen royal by his side, was emblematic of the traditions and evolving role of the British monarchy. It reaffirmed the commitment to honour those serving abroad while strengthening familial bonds within the royal family itself.