A moment of great symbolism follows when the Archbishop places St Edward's Crown on The King's anointed head, all cry 'God Save The King', a fanfare is sounded, the Abbey bells are rung, and gun salutes are fired.įOR this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: for by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: and he is before all things, and by him all things consist. In particular, those presenting the regalia to The King reflect the diversity of the United Kingdom and its peoples, in striking contrast to seventy years ago.

There is also a Ring symbolising the faithful 'marriage' of a Monarch to his peoples. Then come the symbols of secular and spiritual power: an Orb, representing the world under Christ a Sceptre with Cross, representing earthly power, held in a restrained, gloved hand and the Sceptre with Dove, representing spiritual authority exercised chiefly in mercy. There are Spurs and Armills, which would have been worn by a medieval knight, and a Sword which The King first wears and then offers in the service of God. Various items of regalia are presented to The King, each a visible reminder of his great responsibility under God.

Elizabeth wein books in order