Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, filled in for his older brother, King Charles. He went to the inauguration mass of Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City. This momentous occasion represented just the latest chapter in Prince Edward’s rich history. His role in the United Kingdom is the British monarchy’s primary diplomatic representative at international events. His attendance further underlines his increasing role in palace, as a trusted envoy to every King’s most important resource – their cash.
On his formal inauguration on [insert date], Prince Edward dressed in full court dress. He finished off his appearance with a traditional ceremonial hat, further emphasizing the importance of the day. Clad all in black, though he had come without his wife Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh to represent her, his presence illuminated the otherwise decayed gathering. Prince Edward is currently one of the Counsellors of State. He now possesses the constitutional authority to step in for King Charles at official events, and he has used that authority several times already.
In recent months, Prince Edward has frequently represented King Charles at significant events, including the funeral of former US President Jimmy Carter. His participation in these kinds of ceremonies highlights the royal family’s desire to continue building and strengthening diplomatic relationships and paying their respects to notable international figures.
Prince Edward’s participation in this papal inauguration perpetuates a more than 200 year old tradition of British attendance at these historic events. Most famously, in 2013, Queen Elizabeth II sent Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, to take her place at the inauguration of Pope Francis. This historical precedent adds weight to the expectation that a British royal will attend papal ceremonies.
This is the first official visit to Vatican City for the Duke. As you might have guessed, no one is under the impression that this will be his last meeting with Pope Leo XIV. Prince Edward had a private 50-minute discussion with the new pontiff during the occasion. This exchange tightened the diplomatic relationship between the monarchy and the Vatican.
King Charles had sent a personal message to Pope Leo XIV immediately after his election. On behalf of The King, Prince Edward conveyed warm wishes from the King to the pontiff during the inauguration. Specifically, he underscored the dynamic and continuing discussion between their two institutions.
Prince Edward’s starring role in this historic occasion is a sign of his growing importance within the royal family. In addition, he has participated in dozens of groundbreaking, ribbon-cutting and other ceremonial events. At the start of this month, he welcomed the recipients of that programme’s top Gold Award into Buckingham Palace for their prestigious celebrations. On top of that, he was influential behind the scenes in British VE Day 80th anniversary commemorations.
