Friday 9 September 2016

Prince Alexander's christening


Prince Alexander of Sweden was christening on September 9th 2016 in Stockholm
(picture kungahuset.se)

Prince Alexander of Sweden, son of Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia, has been christening at the Drottningholm Palace. The fifth in line to the throne was baptised surrounded by family and friends on September 9th 2016.




Prince Alexander arrived at the ceremony, in the Royal Chapel of Drottningholm Palace, in the arms of his mother, Princess Sofia. Wearing the traditional christening gown, used by Sweden's Royal Family since   .




The christening ceremony was conducted by Archbishop Antije Jackelen who was assisted by Bishop Johan Dalman and Michael Bjerkhagen. The altar was surrounded by deep coral and bright yellow flowers, reminiscent of the colourful display used at the wedding of Carl Philip and Sofia in June 2015.



Prince Alexander has five godparents, announced on September 8th 2016. Two of his aunts, Crown Princess Victoria and Lina Frejd, stood sponsor as did his father's cousin. Victor Magnuson, and two family friends, Jan-Ake Hansson and Cajsa Larsson.  They joined those officiating at the ceremony and Alexander's parents in laying their hands on the baby prince during the ceremony.




Alexander, like many members of the Royal Family, was christened at the late 17th century font made of carved and gilded wood. Water from a spring in Oland was used - a tradition started by King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia for their own children and carried on for their grandchildren.



Another new tradition ended the ceremony as his grandfather presented him with the Order of Seraphim - he has handed it over to all his grandchildren.

After the ceremony there was a 21 gun salute while the proud parents and their little prince posed for photographs with their family and guests. A happy day, all about Alexander.

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