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1st official rendition of God Save the King sung at St Paul's Cathedral memorial service
The first official public rendition of God Save the King took place on Friday at the end of a memorial service for Queen Elizabeth II at St Paul's Cathedral in London.
With King Charles III now the monarch, the words of Britain's national anthem have changed from "Queen" to "King," and from "her victorious" to "him victorious."
The Royal Family were not present at St Paul's Cathedral for the hour-long memorial service, which was instead attended by about 2,000 people.
Prime Minister Liz Truss and other senior government officials, including ministers, did attend, however.
At the event, which was closed to the press with extensive security measures, Truss gave a brief reading from the Bible after an earlier meeting with the king Buckingham Palace.
The Bishop of London also addressed the congregation, who also heard a choir sing.
“Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today.”
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) September 9, 2022
His Majesty The King addresses the Nation and the Commonwealth. pic.twitter.com/xQXVW5PPQ2
The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, the most senior cleric in the Church of England, gave a blessing at the end of the service.
Many people were waiting outside the cathedral.
Queen Elizabeth II died on Thursday at Balmoral aged 96. She was Britain's longest-serving monarch, after reigning for 70 years.
Queen Elizabeth's doctors concerned for her health and recommend medical supervision
Charles, 73, will be officially proclaimed King at the Accession Council on Saturday in a ceremony held at St. James's Palace in London.
Charles bestowed the titles of Prince and Princess of Wales on his eldest son William and daughter-in-law Kate -- titles that he and his late wife Diana previously held.
He also expressed love for his son Harry and daughter-in-law Meghan Markle as they "continue to build their lives overseas."
