Some things are considered so sacred that they are placed at a remove from the public. Longtime readers will know that I am opposed to all photography of sacraments posted online. Go ahead and take photos before or after, but there's no reason to publish photos of reception of communion or baptisms. I'm not holding a position in the majority, I know, but such is life.
(OAJ) - The Coronation of King Charles III, this Saturday, will include important contributions from Orthodox artists. Alexander Lingas, Founder and Music Director of Cappella Romana, will lead the Byzantine Chant Ensemble in singing Psalm 71. And Iconographer Aidan Hart has designed the beautiful screen for the sacramental anointing, which he describes in the article below.
The sacred chrism itself is another contribution of the Orthodox Church. See photos of its consecration by the Patriarch of Jerusalem together with the Anglican archbishop here.
The coronation and anointing should be of great interest to Orthodox viewers, as these are among the most ancient religious rites, described even in the Old Testament. Sacramental anointing of a monarch was practiced as a sacred mystery by the Orthodox Church until the 20th century. Today no Orthodox monarchs remain – sacramental anointing of a Christian monarch still occurs in only two countries – Great Britain and Tonga. Saturday’s coronation may be a unique opportunity to witness this oldest and rarest of holy rites...
Complete article available here.
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Agreed. Some things should be private or at least have that option. While I have seen photos of people communing and even confession, I don't think that is in good taste. I am a bit more ambivalent about baptisms as it seems to have gained near universal acceptance. But even so, permission should be asked first.
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