As the World Watches, a New Era is Ushered In

Amid an atmosphere of reverence and religious symbolism, throngs of people gathered to say farewell to one era and to usher in the next. Swift Report correspondent Russell D'Arby, who attended the event, calls it "incredibly moving" and "emotional beyond belief." Here's a first-hand look at the momentous ceremony.

Millions around the world tune in to pay their respects

By Russell D'Arby

ST. GEORGES CHAPEL—On a bittersweet April afternoon, a single bell tolled as the crowd filled this centuries-old structure, heads bowed in prayer. By the time the simple but stirring ceremony had reached its end, many in the audience would have tears in their eyes, moved to emotion by the finality of the occasion—a seemingly inevitable conclusion reached at last.

A momentous send-off
The audience, which included heads of state from around the world, royalty from countries near and far, and legions of believers, was joined by millions of television viewers who tuned in to pay their respects. And whether they watched from Rome or Romania, they saw the same scene of quiet dignity: a day of penitence and praise for an institution as long-lived as it is beloved.

Amid security concerns
Outside, the streets were thronged with fans and well-wishers, many of whom had traveled great distances to be present on this symbolic day. One woman in the crowd said that she had journeyed for more than a day just to be here. "To me this is a sign that after all he's been through, he's finally moving on. I wouldn't have missed this for the world."

Security here was extraordinarily tight. In an effort to protect the numerous high-profile individuals who came to pay their respects, police closed roads and blocked traffic, while officers patrolled rooftops, mingled in the crowd and patrolled the area accompanied by bomb-sniffing dogs. And in deference to the somber occasion, the town postponed many sporting and cultural events.

A devout, and well-behaved crowd
While security officials set up cordons to control the masses of people in attendance, the crowds were exceptionally well behaved. By the end of a day, police officers had made just a single arrest—an apparent streaker, who was seized and covered by authorities, who walked him away.

"Anytime you get so many people gathered together for such an emotional occasion you're going to have problems that arise," said a spokesperson for the local police force. "This has been a very peaceful tribute. No broken windows or cars burned. I think it shows you how much people care about what's happening here today.

Penitence—and peace, at last
The highlight of the ceremony was a moving reading from an ancient religious text that acknowledged—and asked for—the power of God's forgiveness: "Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Maker of all things, Judge of all men/We acknowledge and bewail our manifold sins and wickedness/Which we, from time to time, most grievously have committed, by thought, word and deed/Against thy Divine Majesty."

And onto the next life
When the service finally reached its end, signaling the end of an era, applause rippled through the gathered crowds, a sign of respect in this European nation. "This is a celebration," said one young man who lingered on the streets here late into the afternoon, in hopes of catching a last glimpse.

After the ceremony, the Prince and Duchess chatted with members of the public gathered outside the chapel, before making their way to a reception, hosted by the Queen, in the castle's State Apartments. There the newlyweds mingled with their guests who were offered egg and cress sandwiches, mini Cornish pasties and scones.

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