Why the Queen and Prince Philip are not attending Prince Louis’ christening

It has nothing to do with their health

Prince Louis’ christening will take place this afternoon at 4pm in the Chapel Royal at St James’ Palace, London – but there will be a couple of famous faces missing from the service.

While Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will be in attendance, as well as Prince Louis’ six godparents, not all of the royal family will be present.

I’m delighted and privileged to be christening Prince Louis today – a precious child made in God’s image, just as we all are. Please join me in praying for him and his family on this special day.

“You are my beloved” (Mark 1:11) pic.twitter.com/HAqW51YFBJ

— Archbishop of Canterbury (@JustinWelby) July 9, 2018

It has been announced that both the Queen and Prince Philip will not be at this afternoon’s ceremony.

Buckingham Palace says that the arrangement has nothing to do with their health, and that the decision was made between the Queen and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge some time ago.

The Queen has quite the busy schedule this week, travelling back from Norfolk today before the RAF centenary tomorrow and President Donald Trump‘s visit later in the week.

Announcement of guests and godparents at the christening of Prince Louis today: https://t.co/pEmVGoFcHw

— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) July 9, 2018

However, Kate Middeton’s parents, her sister and husband James Matthews, and brother James Middleton will all be there, as well as Prince Charles and wife Camilla.

Following the 40-minute service, the guests will head to Clarence House where they will have tea and cake, a tier from William and Kate’s wedding back in 2011.

We can’t wait for the first pictures of the Cambridges as a family of three!