Newsletter - 7th May 2023
The Coronation of
King Charles III
A Coronation is a mysterious thing so I appreciated discovering the full liturgy, with explanations, on the Church of England website.
This helped me understand many of the strange symbols and ancient traditions. It is much more than placing a crown on the king’s head. Above all, I realised that God is a significant actor in the whole thing. Yes, it is steeped in traditions, but it is also steeped in prayer. It is a religious ceremony which acknowledges a higher power than the King. I love the first words spoken in the ceremony, by a child: “Your Majesty, as children of the Kingdom of God, we welcome you in the name of the King of Kings.”
The link to God is seen especially in the ritual of anointing with the Sacred Chrism – the same oil that is used in baptism, confirmation, and the ordination of priests. It is olive oil to which is added a fragrant scent. It is blessed by a Bishop with an invocation of the Holy Spirit. When I explain its meaning to children, I say, “it has the very name of Christ, and we are filled with His fragrance.” For infants, after their baptism with water, Chrism is placed on the top of the head like a crown and the priest says a prayer, ending with the words, “As Christ was anointed Priest, Prophet, and King, so may you live always as a member of his body, sharing everlasting life.” It hearkens back to the Old Testament when kings, prophets, and priests were anointed with oil. It was a sign of the Holy Spirit coming down on them. Now, it is no longer reserved for these offices – everyone who is baptised is anointed with the holy oil to become priest, prophet, and king!
I thought it was fascinating that this most sacred part of the ceremony is done in private – the King and Archbishop are encircled by a special screen. The commentary explains:
Vessel that holds the sacred chrism and spoon used to anoint the King
The King’s anointing sets him apart to fulfil a vocation and begin a new life as Sovereign, dedicated to the service of all... It is The King’s only moment of privacy during the Service, as he contemplates how he is called by God.
We can pray that our new King will experience this day not just as outward ceremony, but as a true anointing for the daunting task ahead. We can pray with the Psalmist: “Endow the king with your justice, O God, the royal son with your righteousness.” (Psalm 72:1)
Nancy Wood, ccn
Focus of the Week
ABRAHAM: A COURSE FOR THOSE WHO ARE “70ISH” AND OVER
Abraham: A course for those who are 70ish and over five sessions to look at the possibilities as we age – Fridays (10:00 -4:00): 19, 26 May, 2, 9. 16 June at Christ the King, Cockfosters. Offered by the Chemin Neuf Community. Suggested donation: £25 per session, lunch included.
Please register by 12 May with the parish office.
Inspired by the journey of Abraham in Genesis, we will reflect on our life’s journey so far and discern our path for the future. Each day will include prayer, teaching, and workshops.
For more information see Ted and Nancy Wood.