The third child of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Louis was christened earlier today in a private ceremony at the Chapel Royal, St James’s Palace. 11 week-old Louis was baptised by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Most Reverend Justin Welby.
The family of five – seen together for the first time – were seen in a video of them arriving at the chapel. In the video, sleeping baby Louis was seen in the arms of his mother, with father and siblings walking together as they were greeted by the archbishop.
The Duchess was heard describing her son as “very relaxed and peaceful”, telling the archbishop with a smile: “I hope he stays like this.”
However, the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh were absent at the christening ceremony. According to Buckingham Palace, the decision was taken by the Queen and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge “some time ago” and it is not due to health reasons.
Newlyweds the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were in attendance at the ceremony, along with Kate’s pregnant sister Pippa Middleton and their brother James Middleton. Prince Louis’ grandfather, the Prince of Wales, and the Duchess of Cornwall were also present.
The latest addition is blessed with six godparents, all who are friends or family of the Cambridges. They include: Nicholas van Cutsem, Guy Pelly, Harry Aubrey-Fletcher, Lady Laura Meade, Mrs Robert Carter and Lucy Middleton.