A processional cross made from recycled silver, Welsh slate, and reclaimed wood will be used in the coronation procession of Britain’s King Charles next month at Westminster Abbey in London.
The new cross was a gift from the king to the Church in Wales to celebrate its centenary in 2020. Two fragments believed to be from the True Cross, donated by Pope Francis, have been incorporated into the design of the Cross of Wales, forming a cross behind a rose crystal gemstone.
In an ecumenical gesture, the cross will be shared between the Anglican and Roman Catholic churches in Wales after the coronation.
The Anglican Archbishop of Wales blessed the cross at a service in Llandudno, North Wales, and expressed his delight that it would guide the king and queen into Westminster Abbey during the coronation service.
King Charles has strong connections to Wales, having held the title of Prince of Wales until his accession to the throne in September 2022, and his son and heir is now Prince of Wales.
