The Christening of Baby George

Editor’s Note: When Baby George’s first name was announced, I couldn’t help by think of one of the great kings of Britain, King George VI. His wartime words were deeply inspiring, like his call to prayer at the time of D-Day.  He knew his identity as an Israelite and his words reflected his knowledge of Scripture, like “For centuries the Bible has been a wholesome and strengthening influence on our national life, and it behoves us in these momentous days to turn with renewed faith to this Divine source of comfort and inspiration”. Try to imagine the impact George VI had on his personal messenger in the days the then Prince was in the Royal Navy. On one occasion, as he was instructed to do daily, the messenger knocked on the Prince’s cabin, entered to await the Prince’s instructions, but this time found the Prince on his knees, praying. A little embarrassed, the messenger stood and waited. After a few minutes, the King-to-be rose to his feet, put an arm around the messenger’s shoulders and said: “If ever you find me on my knees, remember there is room for you by my side.” I hope the new Prince George learns much about his great, great grandfather, a wonderful role model.

In the Chapel Royal at St James’s Palace on the afternoon of Wednesday 23rd October, 23 people attended the ceremony of the Christening of Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge, conducted by the Most Reverend Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury.

The Archbishop told the congregation that the baby’s parents and godparents had a ‘simple task’ – to “make sure he knows who this Jesus is”.

We were informed that water from the River Jordan was used to make the sign of the Cross on George’s forehead, a Royal tradition that dates back to the 12th century.

The second reading, given by Prince Harry was taken from St John chapter 15, verse 1­5. Jesus said “I am the true vine,  as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me.” “I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in Me and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

This is interesting as the vine is also symbolic of Israel, and so the youngest of the Royal Family is being reminded not only that he is of Israel but also that without Jesus he can do nothing. Amen.

This slightly abridged article courtesy of the second issue of The South West Beacon, Orchard Lea, Drayton Lane, Curry Rivel, Sommerset, UK TA10 0EN. UK readers should write and get a copy, it is simply excellent.