Significance of the Coronation Shirt in LDS Tradition and King Charles Coronation

The Significance of the Coronation Shirt

As King Charles III prepares for his coronation in May 2023, much attention has been given to the ceremonial clothes he will wear for this solemn and sacred occasion. One of the most symbolic items will be the coronation shirt.

This simple white garment holds deep meaning and represents key doctrines in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Understanding the coronation shirt's origins and symbolism can provide insight into this important event.

The History of the Coronation Shirt

The coronation shirt has its roots in the endowment clothing worn during LDS temple ceremonies. Temple clothing symbolizes mankind's journey back to God's presence. The shirt represents the garment given to Adam and Eve after being cast out of Eden.

Early Latter-day Saints wore temple clothing as part of sacred ordinances and covenants. In the late 1800s, church leaders began using a version of the temple garment for coronations of prophets and kings.

The first documented instance was for the coronation of John Taylor as President of the Church in 1880. Since then, the white shirt and white pants have become the customary coronation outfit for each new church president.

Symbolism of the Coronation Shirt

The color white represents purity and equality before God. The shirt's plain, unadorned style reflects humility and the relinquishing of worldly status or rank.

The shirt represents the sacred covenants made with God and commitment to follow Jesus Christ. Wearing the garment reminds the newly crowned king or prophet of their divine calling to serve and their accountability to God.

It also symbolizes Christ's Atonement providing 'a covering' for imperfection as devoted disciples strive for righteousness. The shirt bearing no insignia reflects focusing on the Atonement rather than earthly accomplishments.

Modern Coronation Traditions

Today, the shirt and other temple clothing continue being used for LDS coronations and some temple ordinances. Recipients typically purchase them through approved church vendors.

When a new church president is sustained, they are taken to a room in the temple to be dressed in the coronation garments before the ceremonial anointing and crowning.

After the coronation, they replace the temple clothing with formal ceremonial attire. The shirt and pants are seen only briefly by a small witnessing group.

King Charles will follow a similar pattern during his coronation as both king and the future 'Defender of the Faith' for the Church of England.

The Coronation Garment as Divine Reminder

For King Charles and all recipients through time, the simple white coronation shirt serves as a profound reminder of covenants with deity and commitment to principled, Christlike leadership in their sacred, God-given role.

The shirt bears no worldly rank or status - only divine authority conferred through righteous living. Wearing the garment symbolizes 'putting on' Christ's purity and grace to guide one's reign or administration.

Just as temple garments remind Latter-day Saints of their divine heritage, the coronation shirt prompts reflection on serving with virtue, compassion and justice while relying on God.

This meaningful raiment worn briefly by prophets and kings represents much more than meets the eye. The coronation shirt silently testifies of humanity's spiritual journey and sacred connection with the Divine.

FAQs

Why does the coronation shirt look so plain and simple?

The unadorned white shirt represents humility and equality before God. It bears no insignia or markings of worldly rank or status.

Who wears the coronation shirt?

In the LDS Church, new presidents wear the shirt briefly during their coronation ceremony. King Charles III will also wear a coronation shirt as he is crowned king and head of the Church of England.

What is the coronation shirt made of?

The shirt is typically made from white cotton or linen. The simple design features long sleeves and a front tie closure.

What does the white color signify?

White represents purity, equality, and submission to God's will. It also symbolizes being covered by Christ's atoning sacrifice.