King Charles Makes Historic Appearance at Catholic Funeral

LONDON, Sept. 16, 2025 - King Charles III became the first British monarch in roughly four centuries to attend a Roman Catholic funeral today, joining royals at Westminster Cathedral for the requiem mass of Katharine, Duchess of Kent.

The monarch’s attendance at the duchess’s service highlights a significant ecumenical milestone, underscoring Charles’s long-held commitment to fostering religious unity.

Nut Graf

Katharine Worsley, who converted to Catholicism in 1994 and served the royal family for decades, was laid to rest at age 92. Charles’s presence at the rites represents a departure from tradition for the Supreme Governor of the Church of England and marks a notable step in improving Protestant-Catholic relations in the UK.

Historic First in Modern Monarchy

• The duchess’s conversion made her the first British royal to embrace Catholicism since King Charles II in 1685.
• Charles’s participation at Westminster Cathedral is the first formal royal Catholic ceremony since the Reformation.

Family and Attendance

• Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, joined their father for the service.
• Queen Camilla was absent due to acute sinusitis and sent her regrets.
• Cardinal Vincent Nichols led the liturgy, with a message from Pope Leo XIV read during the mass.

Reactions and Context

• Catherine Pepinster, former editor of The Tablet, called the funeral “of great historical significance,” noting its positive impact on ecumenical relations.
• The service follows Katharine’s private family vigil and includes traditional hymns and prayers.

Looking Ahead

Following the funeral, the duchess’s coffin will be interred at Frogmore on the Windsor estate. Windsor Castle is preparing to host U.S. President Donald Trump for a state banquet beginning Wednesday, reflecting the UK’s diplomatic engagements amid this historic royal moment.