One year after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, the royal family continues to feel the weight of her absence. Her eldest child and heir, King Charles III, was visibly emotional as he left a church service commemorating his mother's extraordinary life and her historic reign of over 70 years.
On September 8, 2022, the world bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth II, marking the end of an era and the beginning of King Charles III's reign. Today, the King, accompanied by Queen Camilla, attended a service at Crathie Kirk, a quaint church located within the grounds of Balmoral Castle. This church holds significant historical importance for the royal family, having been their place of worship when at Balmoral since Queen Victoria's reign. Notably, it was also the site where senior royals gathered to remember the life of Diana, Princess of Wales, after her tragic death in 1997.
Following the service, King Charles III and Queen Camilla paused to interact with well-wishers before heading back to Balmoral Castle, the very place where Queen Elizabeth II breathed her last. Photographs captured the King, looking deeply moved and teary-eyed, a testament to the profound impact of his mother's legacy.
This day, known as "Accession Day" in Britain and the Commonwealth realms, not only reflects on the late Queen's life but also marks the anniversary of King Charles III's accession to the throne. The day was punctuated with gun salutes echoing across the kingdom, symbolizing the transition of power and the continuation of the monarchy.
Elsewhere in the U.K., Prince William and Kate, Princess of Wales, engaged with the public and attended a church service at St David's Cathedral in honor of Queen Elizabeth. Prince Harry, too, was present in the U.K. for Accession Day. He visited his grandmother's burial site at Windsor Castle, paying his respects. The Duke of Sussex also took the opportunity to honor Queen Elizabeth II during his speech at the WellChild Awards the previous night. He is slated to depart the U.K. for Germany soon, marking the commencement of the Invictus Games.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have not made a joint appearance in Britain since Queen Elizabeth II's state funeral on September 19, 2022. Prince Harry's memoir, "Spare," delves into the events of that day, alleging that his brother William and father, King Charles III, were reluctant to have Meghan present during the Queen's final moments.
As the royal family navigates through this period of reflection and remembrance, the world watches, paying homage to a monarch whose influence and legacy remain unparalleled.