Highlights
- King says modern world would have troubled Elizabeth II deeply.
- Royal family gathers to mark what would have been Queen's 100th birthday.
- Charles renews pledge of service in emotional tribute to 'darling mama'.
In a three-minute video message filmed at Balmoral Castle, the King said much about current times would have troubled the late Queen Elizabeth II deeply.
However, he drew comfort from her lifelong belief that goodness always prevails and brighter days lie ahead.
"Much about the times we now live in I suspect may have troubled her deeply, but I take heart from her belief that goodness will always prevail and that a brighter dawn is never far from the horizon," the King said.
Century of service
The King praised his mother's remarkable life, describing how she remained constant through decades of transformation. Elizabeth II died on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96, after serving as monarch for 70 years.
On Tuesday, the Royal family will gather at Buckingham Palace for commemorations You Tube
"Her near-century was one of remarkable change and yet, through each passing decade, through every transformation, she remained constant, steadfast and wholly devoted to the people she served," Charles said.
The tribute referenced the late Queen's wartime broadcast at age 14, when Princess Elizabeth spoke about making tomorrow "a better and happier place".
"Let us therefore seek to follow this example as we make today not the marking of a milestone felt by absence but the celebration of a life well-lived, and a legacy of hope, as we strive together towards a 'better, happier tomorrow', one rooted in peace, justice, prosperity and security," the King said.
The King urged people to follow this example, describing it as a belief he shares wholeheartedly.
Charles recalled fond memories, including his mother's appearance with Paddington Bear during her Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022.
He spoke of her "marvellous twinkle of the eye" during that final public moment.
The King renewed his pledge of duty and service, telling viewers: "God bless you, darling mama; you remain forever in our hearts and prayers."
On Tuesday, the Royal family will gather at Buckingham Palace for commemorations. They will view design recommendations for the Queen Elizabeth Memorial at the British Museum and host representatives from the late Queen's patronages.
The Princess Royal will open the Queen Elizabeth II Garden in Regent's Park.
The King and Queen Camilla began the day touring an exhibition of the late Queen's fashion at the King's Gallery, featuring over 300 items from her life.
