Why King Charles Won’t Be Seated With the Other Royals at Easter

The stage is set for King Charles’s return to the public eye after his cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment. This weekend, the monarch is expected to attend the annual Easter service at St. George’s Chapel — but when he arrives, he won’t be seated with the other royals. According to The Telegraph, Easter is part of an effort for the king to take “gentle steps” towards his normal public duties, but precautions are being made to keep him safe. In another shift, Charles will not be hosting Easter lunch like in years

The publication notes that the king’s seat “is next to the queen’s and set apart from the rest of the congregation,” making for what is “considered an acceptable environment” as he continues his treatment. Buckingham Palace hasn’t confirmed which of the royals will also be attending, but Kate Middleton, Prince William, and presumably their children, won’t be at the service this year. Traditionally, Charles’s sister, Princess Anne; her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence; and Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, along with her daughters, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice, attend Easter events.

A source close to the family described the king’s scheduled attendance a “sign of things heading in the right direction.”

Sources also say that the king’s planned Easter appearance is a sign that the palace is “turning the dial” toward Charles getting back to his ordinary routines, including a slow progression back to hosting guests at the palace.

Leading up to this weekend’s, Charles has missed several traditional events, but has sent recorded messages in his stead. Queen Camilla attended the Royal Maundy Service on his behalf on Mar. 28, but Charles did have a speech prepared for the occasion.

In this country, we are blessed by all the different services that exist for our welfare,” he said in a recording shared by NBC News. “But over and above these organizations and their selfless staff, we need and benefit greatly from those that extend the hand of friendship to us, especially in a time of need.”

“This act of worship here in Worcester Cathedral reminds me of the pledge I made at the beginning of the coronation service: to follow Christ’s example not to be served but to serve,” he finished. “That I have always tried to do and continue to do with my whole heart. It is my special prayer today that our Lord’s example of serving one another might continue to inspire us and to strengthen all our communities.”