Overview
- Buckingham Palace temporarily lifted its usual ban on filming prayer, and broadcasters aired images of the service worldwide.
- The ecumenical liturgy ran about 45 minutes with a theme of protecting nature and combined the Sistine Chapel Choir with the St George’s Chapel choir from Windsor.
- During a later service at Saint Paul Outside the Walls, Charles received the honorary title of Royal Confrater, and a dedicated seat was established for future British monarchs.
- Before the service, the king held a private audience with the pope at the Apostolic Palace, where the two exchanged gifts.
- The two‑day state visit coincided with renewed scrutiny of the royal family over Prince Andrew and with ongoing strains inside the Church of England.