Accession ceremony held for King Charles III in Regina

King Charles III has officially taken over his mother’s spot as monarch.

The accession ceremony occurred Saturday at Government House in Regina, demonstrating Saskatchewan’s commitment to the crown.

In London, King Charles III was officially proclaimed King at a special ceremony held at St. James Palace in London while a similar ceremony was also held at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.

In Regina, Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty and Premier Scott Moe signed the Great Seal of the Province.

“Certainly this is both a happy and a sad day,” said Mirasty. “Sad because we say goodbye to Canada’s Queen, the only sovereign most of us have ever known, and a truly remarkable public servant.”

“Happy because we welcome a new sovereign, King Charles III is a highly accomplished, and devoted individual.”

The Great Seal of the Province of Saskatchewan officially announcing Queen Elizabeth II death, and the accession of King Charles III. (Gillian Massie/980 CJME)

Mirasty said the news of the Queen’s death felt more legitimate as he ran past her statue at the Legislative Building this morning.

“At that moment it really hit me that it is the end of an era,” said Mirasty.

Two prayers began the ceremony. Elder John Stonechild began the ceremony with a blessing, and Reverend D. Michael Jackson from St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral also offered a prayer to the late sovereign.

All flags have been raised at all provincial government buildings for a full day of the proclamation of the accession of the King.

Moe said a few things changed to how they execute business. Queen’s councils will convert to King’s councils, and court benches will be changed to Court of Kings Bench rather than Court of Queen’s Bench. They will now also swear laws under the King.

Moe said the monarch will be remembered for her commitment to duty.

“I don’t know if anyone can remember a Queen that was so relatable,” said Moe. “For seven decades of service, which is the second thing I think she will be remembered for is not only the length of her service but the dignity she served, and the dedication she served to the public each and every day.”

While Charles’ charities will now take a backseat, Moe thinks he will do a good job as King.

“Nobody has had a better mentor than King Charles III, and I trust that he will most certainly serve with the same degree of dedication.”