In a momentous occasion marking the first Commonwealth Day service of their reign, the Prince and Princess of Wales were joined by the newly minted Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.

King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla led the ceremony, which took place at the historic Westminster Abbey.

As the King prepared to deliver a poignant message from the Great Pulpit, many anticipated a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

The ceremony was particularly significant as it coincided with Prince Edward’s 59th birthday, the day he was conferred the Dukedom of Edinburgh.

Edward and his wife, Sophie, made their public debut as the Duke and Duchess, expressing gratitude to the Scottish people for their generosity towards Ukrainian refugees.

Their son, James, has now officially taken on the title of Earl of Wessex, adding to the family’s evolving royal lineage.

Duchess Sophie exuded elegance in a cream ensemble as she arrived alongside Edward for the service.

Meanwhile, Kate Middleton dazzled in a navy and white floral peplum-style outfit designed by Erdem.

She topped off her look with a wide-brimmed hat and striking diamond and sapphire earrings.

The blustery weather had the royal ladies gripping their hats tightly, a reminder of the unpredictability of British weather.

In addition to her fashionable choices, Kate wore a feather brooch gifted by the King, a symbol reflecting her new title as the Princess of Wales.

Queen Consort Camilla complemented the regal atmosphere in a sapphire blue wool crepe dress and coat by Fiona Clare, adorned with a chic beret from Philip Treacy and the late Queen’s sapphire and diamond brooch.

The service saw the participation of other senior royals, including the Princess Royal and Vice-Admiral Sir Tim Lawrence, who joined the procession.

As Head of the Commonwealth, King Charles continues the legacy of his mother, who had advocated for him to assume this prestigious role.

A Commonwealth flag representing peace was prominently displayed during the event, emphasizing 2023 as the Commonwealth Year of Peace.

Musical performances enriched the service, featuring saxophonist Yolanda Brown, West End stars Rishani Abbey and Nuan Hugh Pereira, and the all-female Amalgamation Choir from Cyprus.

These artists added a vibrant touch to the solemn yet celebratory atmosphere of the day.