Royals

VIDEO: Princess Charlotte’s christening

Princess Charlotte was christened at the church of St Mary Magdalene in Sandringham on Sunday.
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Princess Charlotte, fourth in line to the throne, was christened at the church of St Mary Magdalene in Sandringham on Sunday. It’s only the second time the princess has been seen in public with her family since her birth on May 2. The ceremony was steeped in tradition, with the church holding special significance. It is where Charlotte’s late grandmother, Princess Diana, was christened in 1961. The royal family traditionally gather there for the Christmas service also.

Kate and William chose to walk to the 16th-century church, as it is close to their residence at Anmer Hall. Kate pushed her daughter in a vintage pram formerly used by the Queen, while William walked hand-in-hand with toddler Prince George. Hundreds of well-wishers cheered them on their way.

Charlotte wore a replica of the intricate christening gown made for Queen Victoria’s eldest daughter of the same name, in 1841. Until 2008, that gown had been worn by all royal babies – including the queen – at their christenings.

Holy water from the River Jordan, where it is said Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist, was used for the baptism, as is royal tradition.

The ceremony was witnessed by a small group of people including the queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Kate’s family. William and Kate chose five godparents for Charlotte, including William’s cousin Laura Fellowes, Kate’s cousin Adam Middleton, and three of the couple’s close friends.

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