In the Bible book of Samuel the request of the people for a king to rule over them so that they could be like the other nations was met with a certain disappointment by the man of God. Samuel saw it as a rejection of God’s government over the people.

Up until that time Judges had ruled Israel and God alone was king; however, later kings like David were celebrated because they walked in the ways of God (most of the time). In today’s world, it is unusual for a country to have a constitutional monarch, and it could be argued that a small and limited monarchy can help to bring stability to a country.

There will be no Civic Service to mark the Coronation in Monmouth but, since this is such a profoundly important religious moment for our nation, there will be plenty of opportunity to celebrate in the churches around Monmouth and elsewhere. St Mary’s in the heart of Monmouth Town will be holding a celebration Eucharist to mark the occasion with special hymns such as “ I vow to thee my country” and “Jerusalem” and with a choral anthem and celebration cake, fizz and the loyal toast. Ty Price Community Hall will be hosting a Coronation Party on Bank Holiday Monday 8th May at 2pm. St Michael’s, Mitchel Troy will celebrate with a Clipping Service on Sunday 7th May at 11.00am when they will wrap the church up with knitted scarves, (red, white and blue) to celebrate community and to link with the coronation of King Charles III.

Clipping the church is an ancient custom that was traditionally held on a date relevant to the Saint associated with the church.

Also on Sunday 7th at 9.30am at Old Church, Penallt there will be a service to celebrate the Coronation with bell ringing after the service. Whilst at 11am a Service of Celebration will be held at St Nicholas, Trellech with Trellech School’s Coronation artwork on display and at 3pm there will be Coronation tea at St Mary’s, Tregare.

The Reverend Timothy Dack, Team Rector (MAL) and Area Dean, for Monmouth Marches Ministry Area.