In a poignant ceremony at St George’s Chapel, the Royal Family came together to pay tribute to the late Greek King Constantine, a close friend and relative of King Charles.
The solemn event, held on February 27 in the historic 15th Century Church, was marked by Queen Camilla leading the Royals in expressing gratitude for Constantine’s life and legacy.
Notably absent from the gathering was King Charles himself, who was unable to attend due to ongoing cancer treatment.
Among those present at the thanksgiving service were Queen Anne-Marie, the widow of Constantine, their eldest son Crown Prince Pavlos, and various members of the Greek Royal Family.
Constantine II, who passed away at the age of 82 last January in an Athens hospital, shared a deep bond with Charles, serving as both a close friend and a godfather to Prince William.
The late Greek King’s tumultuous reign, which began when he ascended the throne at just 23 years old in 1964, was marked by political upheaval and eventual exile.
Constantine’s involvement in the events that led to a military coup in 1967 ultimately resulted in the abolition of the monarchy in 1973.
Despite hopes of restoration following the return to democracy in 1974, Constantine’s aspirations for regaining the throne were dashed.
While Charles was unable to attend Constantine’s funeral last year in Athens, his absence was notable as he fulfilled prior commitments, including meeting the President of Cyprus.
Representing the King at the somber occasion was the Princess Royal, highlighting the enduring connections between royal families across Europe.
Amid his health battle, King Charles has reportedly turned to spiritual guidance from Archimandrite Ephraim, the abbot of the Greek Orthodox Monastery of Vatopedi on Mount Athos.
Ephraim, speaking to Greek media, expressed optimism about Charles’s condition, stating his belief that the King will overcome the challenges posed by his recent cancer diagnosis.
As Charles focuses on his treatment and spiritual development, his absence from public duties underscores the personal struggles he faces while navigating his health journey.
The Royal Family’s show of unity and support during the thanksgiving service for Constantine serves as a reminder of the bonds that transcend borders and generations within royal circles.
Despite the challenges ahead, the King’s resilience and determination to overcome adversity remain at the forefront as he confronts this latest chapter in his life.