The weekend just past saw the baptism of Queen Elizabeth’s fifth great-grandchild Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana of Cambridge, the second child and first daughter of William (heir to the heir) to the throne and his wife Catherine.

News reports leading up to the Christening focussed on the fashions that might be worn, and the (until last minute secret) choice of Godparents. The news reports of the event list the five Godparents, and detail the beautiful silver gilt lily font on loan from the Tower of London, the water imported from the river Jordan, and did I mention the fashions…

The baptism of a member of the English Royal Family is a significant occasion since the monarch is “Defender of the Faith and Supreme Governor of the Church of England.” Queen Elizabeth is undoubtedly a woman of faith. Her Christmas Messages are evidence of this.

Given that the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Queen are two of the few at the gathering who speak of their relationship with Jesus, and who live their faith within a Christian community every week, we might take the opportunity to pray for Princess Charlotte on the occasion of her baptism. While her older brother George, her father William and grandfather Charles will likely all be kings, it is not impossible that Charlotte could serve as Queen.

Let us pray that Charlotte, and all in her family who will serve as defenders of faith, may experience the beauty of life lived in relationship with Jesus, the true king of kings. In the prayer that concludes the Church of England Rite of Baptism:

today God has touched you with his love
and given you a place among his people.
God promises to be with you in joy and in sorrow,
to be your guide in life,
and to bring you safely to heaven.
In baptism God invites you on a life-long journey.
Together with all God’s people  you must explore the way of Jesus
and grow in friendship with God,
in love for his people,  and in serving others.
With us you will listen to the word of God
and receive the gifts of God.
Amen

(Church of England Rite of Baptism)