Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor made a rare public appearance at the christening of his granddaughter, Athena, held at St James’s Palace in London. The event, which took place on a crisp morning, saw the former prince arrive alone in a Range Rover around 10:45 AM. This was one of his first public engagements since he weathered major personal and royal storms in recent months.
When Athena was born a few weeks premature on January 22, this christening rite took on a special meaning. The ceremony was filled with love and joy by the presence of family and close friends. Other well-known personalities attending included Princess Eugenie and husband Jack Brooksbank along with musician James Blunt. Athena’s christening became a touching family reunion despite the recent protests and controversies that have continued to ensnare Andrew.
A Controversial Background
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was born a prince, but King Charles III formally removed his royal title in October. This decision came on the heels of grave lapses of judgement due to Andrew’s connection with convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein. In many ways, this decision represented the biggest turning point in Andrew’s life and royal career.
Despite his foibles he’s continued to be, even in royal circles, an irresistible magnet. Now, as he looks toward relocating to a new home, his curiosity is piqued more than ever. According to reports, he will be relocated to a private property on the King’s Sandringham estate. That transition is planned for even the new year. Andrew has been renting Royal Lodge, a huge grace-and-favor mansion in Windsor, since 2003 on a 75-year lease. He has paid £1 million for the lease with an annual rent in return of “one peppercorn” if virtually demanded.
Andrew’s christening was his first public appearance since the funeral of the Duchess of Kent in September. Only last month he was seen riding behind closed doors in Windsor Great Park. That implies to me that he’s been very discreet and under the radar as he’s been working through his current situation.
Family Gatherings and Support
The christening served as a time for family members to unite and rally around each other. Ferguson, the Duchess of York and Andrew’s ex-wife, joined the Duke at the ceremony. The evening wasn’t a victory lap — it was all about Athena’s future undertakings. In many ways, the move united the family amid these hard times.
Princess Eugenie has spoken out often about the pressures mothers face. As part of the ceremony she shared her own journey into motherhood. She showed the world how isolating that first early birth can be on new parents. Finally, she highlighted the tremendous importance of community care as we navigate this difficult period together.
“I think so often, especially as mums, we spend our lives, you know, feeling we have to be perfect to do this.” – Princess Eugenie
Her sentiments, well they all hit home with most everyone in the audience. They were grateful for the existence of organizations that provide vital advocacy and research to help families dealing with the same challenges.
Reflecting on the Future
As Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor prepares for his upcoming move and continues to face the ramifications of his past actions, his public appearances remain closely scrutinized. The christening of Athena is a lovely reminder that joy and love can shine through even the worst of circumstances and keep us together with our families.
