King Charles greets spectators at Easter service, in first major public outing since his cancer diagnosis

King Charles III attended an Easter service on Sunday at Windsor Castle, marking his most noteworthy public appearance since being diagnosed last month with an undisclosed form of cancer.
The visit could be serving as a comforting precursor to the king’s eventual planned return to the public-facing duties from which he has been largely absent in the wake of his diagnosis and treatment.
The monarch offered a cheery wave to spectators as he walked into St. George’s Chapel for a service expected to last about an hour. A member of the public shouted “Happy Easter,” with Charles responding, “And to you.” He rejoined the crowd after the service ended, speaking to people who had gathered there and shaking their hands.

Charles attended Sunday’s service along with Queen Camila and other members of the royal family. His siblings, the Duke of Edinburgh, the Duke of York and Princess Anne were all in attendance, along with the Duchess of Edinburgh and their son James and Anne’s husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, according to the BBC.

Sarah Ferguson, Prince Andrew’s ex-wife who was diagnosed with skin cancer earlier this year, was also in attendance.

But the service itself was smaller than usual. Catherine, Princess of Wales, known to the public as Kate Middleton, is also being treated for cancer and said in a viral video announcing the news that she would be doing so privately. Princess Kate did not attend the Easter service, nor did her husband, William, Prince of Wales, or their three children.
The 75-year-old monarch’s appearance is seen as an effort to reassure the public after Charles stepped back from public duties in early February following an announcement by Buckingham Palace that he was undergoing treatment for an unspecified type of cancer.

The king has continued fulfilling his state duties, such as reviewing government papers and meeting with the prime minister. He was also seen attending a church service with Camilla in February, shortly after the cancer diagnosis was announced. But Charles’ attendance at a traditional royal event like the Easter service is seen as a sign that he is beginning a managed return to public life. British media reported last week that Charles would slowly increase his public appearances after Easter. He did not attend a pre-Easter service, which is another traditional event known as Maundy Thursday, with Camilla attending in his place.
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