I did not like Bishop Curry's talk. It wasshrill, simplistic, and hammy. I kept switching the channel away, only to get back and find him still yammering and hammering away as if he had a right to lecture the crowd on love. He probably thinks he is the only one who knows anything about it. Bah.
6
I am not a royal or celebrity watcher, but I find myself deeply moved by the wedding of Prince Harry and American actress Megan Markle.
The love, acceptance, and respect - the genuine intimacy of their relationship - is palpable; made all the more remarkable by the fact that their wedding was set on the world stage.
In this moment, Harry and Megan show us the far-reaching power of love...in a world increasingly driven by the love of power.
Theirs is not however, a fairy tale, it is a reality tale. Depression, dysfunction, estrangement, and tragedy are integral to who these two people have become. God bless them for being exactly who they are...despite the world stage.
I dare say, over time their union may, in fact, have a more tangible, positive, and powerful impact on the world than the royals who eventually take the throne.
19
I cannot understand the whole fuss about the royal family? What is so special about them? Have they made any revolutionary discoveries or invented a new technology? Have they furthered the progress of science? Are they the paragon of moral conduct and noble way of living? Who cares, but small-minded people, how they marry and what they wear during wedding? The servility and subservience are still strongly embedded in the psyche of a common man, it seems.
7
Hey if the Kardashians are famous...
6
Poor thing...she married Ralph Malph.
2
You all know James Hewitt is Harry’s father.....not Prince Charles
Heaven knows why the media doesn’t report on this as part of the celebrity ridden tabloid trash that is this wedding.
Per SNL, it’s the wedding between an unemployed single guy living with his grandmother and D list actress......who cares
7
Please do not misunderstand me, this is not against to Meghan and Harry, they are in love and wish them a happy and healthy marriage, my problem with this ROYAL think, kings, queens, princes, princess and $ 40 million spending for this wedding, and Meghan is half black, so Harry is a hero because of this, my friends this is 21st century , we are going to send people to VENUS for visit, and every day more than 50 humans are dying in GAZA , and there is no quire for cancer yet, and 40 million dollars for a wedding, and royals does not work and l mean earn money , l just can not understand the whole think and l do not want to either
2
Apples and oranges argument.
I do agree in a way, BEFORE the wedding I had said I wished they'd elope or get married in a clerk's office, but having seen the wedding, they really pulled it off, judging by the majority of the comments.
2
There was suffering in the 1st century yet Jesus still went to that wedding.
I just don't understand it.
3
Finally, some uplifting news. I am so glad that this marriage took place as it did.
For a few hours this beautiful wedding took the attention of most people.
And no tweets from Trump or information about the ugliness that pervades our Country.
Thank you to Megan and Harry for bringing a bit of sunshine into our world for one day.
May you both be blessed with a long and happy life together.
23
Editorial note: Charles Spencer is (9th) Earl Spencer. Viscount Althorp is a subsidiary title which he bore as a courtesy title while his father lived. He is not Earl of Althorp as you report.
3
Congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex!!!! It was a beautiful wedding and I wish them well!!!!! :) :)
8
"It somehow looked charming and just right." Although conspiculously missing were BFFs Barak and Michelle. All or none, I know, bummer.
6
I think they didn't invite any politicians because otherwise they would have "had to" invite Trump....sad, since Obama and Harry are said to be friends.
3
You gotta love the picture of the Duchess of Kent in her gown and comfortable sneakers.
3
What a lovely occasion and day.
3
Thank you for contributing to the celebrity ridden tabloid trash that has become our national media.
2
Just a thought:
From npr.org:
"A consultancy, Brand Finance, which last year released a report asserting that the monarchy is good for the U.K.'s economy, predicts a $1.3 billion boost from the nuptials, to include an increase in tourism revenue of more than $400 million and a $67 million boost from sales of souvenirs..."
4
So don't read about it if it bothers you that much, although the Times has a long way to go and a far way to fall before it enters the realm of "tabloid trash." Good Lord, people are so cranky! If you think you can do a better journalistic job, on this sort of subject or anything else, apply for some reporting jobs or enroll in journalism school.
8
It is wonderful to see an example of pure class. May some of our seasons's young brides be paying attention.
4
Wish them the best, but it's sad that the current administration has reduced us to marrying off our beautiful and talented women to foreign monarchies to maintain good international relations:)
6
The article's assertion that "Clare Waight Keller, a British woman and the first female designer of Givenchy" was a complete surprise and had never been rumored as the designer is false. BBC's fashion commentator identified Waight Keller among the rumored designers.
3
It was probably coincidence? But as Harry was repeating his vow to "forsake all others" Charles and Camilla were shown directly behind him. It was hard to watch.
6
Yes, the price for security paid by the taxpayers at Windsor was quite high. On the other hand, the it was made up manyfold by tourists putting money into the British economy.
That $40 million is a fraction of the costs that #45 puts on the backs of US taxpayers with his frequent trips to Mar-a-Gaudy, where every single day cost the locals $60K in security alone.
23
Also, the money is earned by people providing security. It's not like it's bot going into the economy. I always find those kinds of observations unnecessarily shallow.
10
Am I the only one who has been disappointed by this incursion of Hollywood into the Royal family? I fully understand that royal marriages have been coordinated for political impact since the beginning of time, but I guess I feel a bit melancholy that the once-great British Empire has been reduced to joining forces with America's self-designated royalists (having their own attendant dysfunctions). To me, the rise of Hollywood (in political matters) is no less disconcerting than the rise of the alt-right. I realize that I may be an outlier here but my opinion of the British royal family has dropped a few notches with this union.
6
American actress Grace Kelly married the Prince of Monoco in 1956, gave up her Academy-Award winning career to assume the duties of princess -- which she carried out with grace and dignity until her death in 1982.
6
And, I must add Grace Kelly put Monoco on the world map. Where as it was just a tiny little principality on the tip of France. It only matters that the Brits are very happy with Harry’s choice. And, they are very much in love.
5
You make it sound like there was a war or a negotiation that ended in Markle being sent to the UK....
Just like when Ms Markle asked the producers of Suits to stop making her ethnically ambiguous and make clear her African American roots, her decision to include Rev Curry was designed to embrace her heritage. Anyone who thinks he failed in his task doesn't understand the job he was given.
20
As an American Meghan owes allegiance to the United States, a nation founded in opposition to the Crown. As Duchess of Sussex Meghan owes allegiance to her grandmother in law aka Elizabeth II by the grace of God, Her Majesty the Queen.
Decisions decisions.
3
She became a citizen of great Britain and renounced her citizenship of America. She had to
1
I think she just made her decision.
Not quite. The Duchess has yet to take the citizenship test. It's challenging too, I understand.
It was a very nice wedding and a good diversion from all the terrible news lately. I did feel that Rev. Curry did chew the scenery a bit. The day was supposed to be about the bride and groom, as well as England. Curry should have cut it down some.
31
Rev. Curry DID "tone down" and very much shortened a typical sermon for that type of heritage: "Black/Evangelical/Southern".
At last—a Worldwide headline event that does not, laud, demonize or even invite Trump. Rather one that highlights & encourages racial diversity, musical prodigies, angelic choirs, heartfelt sermons & wild hats. A chance to put aside differences, rejoice in new love and marvel at the huge crowds that outnumbered the ones at Trump’s Inauguration.
23
Kind of sad to read so many snarky, bitter comments. I'm the biggest cynic in the 5 boroughs, and I was crying like a baby. Sunny skies in Britain, two people in love, charming touches in the ceremony, a gospel choir singing a beautiful "Stand by Me", a modern, independent woman, a simple dress, that diamond bandeau tiara (OMG), the way they looked at each other, and on and on. It was perfection. Criticizing individual elements you personally don't like is tacky. Be joyful! Love is all you need.....
53
So many great images. One of the best was to see Prince Charles escort Ms Ragland down the steps.
My takeaway from this is that Prince William is local while Prince Harry is global. William is the future King of England but Harry is a global citizen. This difference between the two brothers is good for the Monarchy.
26
So nice to watch. Watched the bbc feed, and learned about the charities. Loved thelnsermon- what the USA needs to hear after 23 shootings in 5 months of 2018 Trump/GOP power. England better watch the usnas an example of what not to do with a government.
7
I'm choosing my words carefully.
Despite Charles walking Meghan down part of the aisle, and despite his care and attention to Doria Ragland, the Royal family made no effort to smile, look engaged, look approving, or even happy for Harry. The Duchess of Cambridge didn't smile even once. Apparently members of the clan were giggling at the Most Rev. Curry's speech, a breach of protocol not only in terms of the Anglican Church, since Rev. Curry is the head of the Episcopal Church in America, and therefore a key part of the Anglican Communion, but simply bad manners, of the kind the British supposedly never betray, unlike vulgar Americans.
It also appeared to me to show an ignorance and insularity that surprised me. How is it possible that this family, with the position they hold, never heard even part of the way African American ministers preach, be they Episcopalian or Baptist?
As for the gospel choir, they were from London, not America, are apparently well known, but the reaction on the faces of the guests watching them were blank and unresponsive, in the face of a beautiful rendition of a lovely song.
I watched the wedding. I enjoyed it. I thought Meghan looked beautiful, and the stand out of her attire was her choice of tiara and her veil.
Yes, Harry and Meghan have further cracked open The Firm. That's good.
But I'd bet that when the party ended, the royals went home to cope with their next fear -- what "color" will their children be? Genes are strange creatures
indeed.
41
A royal wedding is a solemn occasion because it’s a state occasion. That is why they weren’t smiling.
4
This wedding was not a State occasion
1
I agree with you, but would have to go back and google William and Kate's wedding to see if that is their standard "mo".....the "not smiling" or looking happy thing.
As for the rudeness of the majority of the people at the wedding toward Rev. Curry and his sermon, I agree with you...I posted about the comments from Brits I saw on the Daily Mail, which was horrified and shocked, just shocked, at his "antics".
Its very likely that most Brits, and all upper class Brits have never been exposed to that type of Black/ Evangelical/Southern preaching....yes, Daily Mail, you ARE allowed to laugh when he's funny!!!
3
Wow, best royal wedding ever. Perfect choices all the way through - best venue, greatest dress, most outstanding cultural mix. By the way, I think I've read that "Stand By Me" was an old gospel spiritual later adapted to be a pop song, so it was very appropriate.
12
What a breeze of delight in these dark and difficult times. Blessings all round.
27
Nothing justifies this pointless spectacle.
7
Well, except that royal weddings are great money makers for the British people. Normally, they make about $500 million. I heard on a program this evening that Meghan’s presence doubled that. You really think that $1 billion isn’t worth it to British businesses? They made far, far more than this “spectacle,” as you called it, cost. I see nothing wrong with that. Besides, who doesn’t love a love story?
14
You could say that about American football games.
4
From npr.org:
"A consultancy, Brand Finance, which last year released a report asserting that the monarchy is good for the U.K.'s economy, predicts a $1.3 billion boost from the nuptials, to include an increase in tourism revenue of more than $400 million and a $67 million boost from sales of souvenirs..."
2
This is by far the best royal wedding I have seen! Both bride and groom were absolutely stunning -- just breath taking! The music had me in tears and Princess Diana's sister's reading was very touching and it made it feel like she was there. They did an outstanding job!!! However, you must give credit where credit is due -- the children were AMAZING!!!! The twins, the little girls and George and Charlotte were way too cute and they stole the hearts of the world!!! LOVED IT!!!
22
As a side note, thank you for the "Amal Clooney and date" caption.
53
A beautiful and classy wedding. A triumph for the UK. A celebration of life, and a keen wedding message about the power of love. First class.
22
It was a lovely wedding and the gospel choir's rendition of "Stand by Me" was beautiful and moving.
But Rev. Curry did not do himself proud. He just seemed to be trying too hard, and look. He's an Episcopalian, not a Baptist. That down home "y'all" was cringe-inducing.
But everything else? Perfect.
27
Y’all is part of the English language.
2
Meghan needed help with the long train. The children were being, well, children. Sometimes having a maid of honor is a practical thing. I'm surprised the designer didn't send someone to help corral the train.
I saw a sign in the town that read "I married a ginge too!" Cute.
2
" "I married a ginge too!" "
So did I. At least she was 46 years ago.
2
You mean the "veil," which was very long. The "train" was long but far shorter in comparison.
2
What’s a ginge?
The wedding is only hours old and the British celebrity media hyenas are already imagining 'problems' -- like will Harry-Meghan outshine William-Kate? Which brother is more popular? Will the press-manufactured 'competition' cause a schism? It's low-class trouble-making. The Boys will have to nip it in the bud by telling the press to flush itself. Harry already had to tell the press to back off Meghan early on. Don't mess with The Boys or their wives. The American celebrity-gossip press does the same thing here.
13
Late in the game between the Cardinals and the Phillies last night a heavy-set man in his mid-50’s, after polishing off his fifth Mich-Ultra, asked me if I was getting up at 3:30 to watch the royal wedding. He thought he could still catch the vows if he slept in until six.
“I still remember 1981,” he said.
And people wonder why the Royals still get attention.
17
As pricey as this is for the taxpayers, the incoming tourism should have more than made up for it in revenue. Plus there were the TV rights and sponsors, not to mention the huge boon to the British designer (who I know works for a French fashion house). I'm sure that it more than evened out in the end.
9
I heard in a program this evening that royal weddings usually take in $500 million. It seems that Meghan’s presence brought it up to a cool $1 billion.
1
Many of the royals in the congregation, particularly those in the quire, did not seem as enthralled with the sermon as the Americans commenting here. As one visibly stunned BBC reporter said, England is not America. But hopefully those in the UK and those in the extended royal family who grabbed their pearls came away with a bit of expansion to their traditional mindset.
26
Every angry commenter here wishes they were the Duke or Duchess. I wish I was a Duchess. That's the point, it's something you hate because you weren't lucky enough to be born that way. Let's face it, if you were a Duchess you wouldn't be commenting in this newspaper because youd be too busy loving being a Duchess lol.
People get all butthurt that there are people that exist that get to be a Duchess just because they are born that way. They want to get rid of the possibility of this happening. I'd say unless you are a communist you probably believe in some sort of system where rich people exist and make kids that have the same benefits as a Duchess.
If you dont like Duchesses, start voting for communists lol.
8
Imagine having to live your whole life in a fishbowl with piranhas! Everybody deserves happiness and that little boy is all grown up...he got married today! Congratulations!
27
Charles! A king would do that! Walk the bride down the aisle as a ‘default’ plan. It’s also a bona fide. Everyone can see the ‘openness’, good nature, of the future sovereign.
23
My thoughts, as a white person raised in an evangelical black church,and now not very religious:
I can't think of two more culturally different ways-of-being than African-American church traditions and those of the British monarchy. The wedding was a hell of a challenge.
Stand-by-me bridged the divide. It was authentically African-American, but appropriately muted for a piece being performed in someone else's sacred space, where the high emotionality of gospel music would easily offend those who grow up to keep expressions of emotion private.
The Bishop: notsomuch. I grew up listening to endless sermons delivered in this style - literal, rambling, theatrical, hit-you-over-the-head-with-Jesus... Like many others like him, he's being authentically himself and true to his own tradition, but how much did he study the traditions of his audience? Did he craft his message to communicate to them? Where's the balm in Gilead when a fraction of the people walk away saying "Preach it brother" and the other half are either smirking or squirming in their seats?
Great preachers connect and inspire. Given the very mixed reception, I call this a fail.
32
It was a learning curve for the Anglicans and others.....an experience. There is a lot of Episcopal tradition in the black, southern tradition, a lot of repetition..repetition....that’s the way it is done down the South, and it can irk
those who are unfamiliar....I am sure that at least Elton John, whose last show in Caesar’s Palace this Thursday, used the same style of “repetition”.......I am sure he appreciated the gospel atmosphere.By the way, his show was a spectacular finale.
8
There's a lot of bad press and comments in the British media about this Bishop.
Unlike here. It was in very poor form, especially the remarks about the fire in cars, cell phones and the very plane that took him over the Atlantic. Made it about himself.
16
To me it wasn't his style- he just went in way too long and made it more about himself than anyone else.
3
Before we leave this Earth we wonder if we've ever done any good, and if we have left behind an heir that carries the best of all that we were. Diana didn't have much time, but it seems clear that her son Harry managed to absorb the things that she believed in, and will yet do the kind of things she meant to see through.
He and his bride have made a remarkable start.
28
Theirs is not a different world; it is a different universe. Doesn’t it make you wonder how so few can have so much while so many have so little?
12
No.
8
Yes.
5
Not one bit. No.
Too bad Harry was not permitted to invite the Obamas. That would have made it perfect.
36
I agree, completely. How I miss having a President worthy of the office.
40
Alas, Obama's successor would have had a public meltdown, possibly triggering an international incident, if the Obamas had been invited and he wasn't. The only way to defuse the situation was to invite neither.
18
It is something called political etiquette. Something the Royals know very much about, especially the Queen.
7
How did those wonderful aerial shots that the NYTimes streamed occur then if not with drones? Please do tell.
7
And the proles who had to bring their own lunches just for the privilege to being background decoration.
Will the NY Times be reporting these "participants"?
6
Where's Edina and Patsy???
20
"Where's Edina and Patsy???"
Drinking bolli-stolli ( Bollinger Champagne and Stolichnaya Vodka Mixed half and half ) and looking for a La Croix sale.
5
" It's a La Kwaah, dahling "
2
What an incredible (and insightful) choice of songs: "Stand by me" obviously referencing the bride and groom's commitment to each other and "Amen"-the old Negro spiritual showering blessings over everyone at the end.
29
What a miserable lot of haters among these commenters! I thoroughly enjoyed watching the wedding—the pomp and circumstance that the Brits do best, the happy couple and the delighted crowds. It was a sunny day with music, funny hats, a magical carriage ride (with an adorable naughty white horse). The people of Britain were happy today and they don’t care what you think!
54
Where there are not ancient palaces and royalty and decorum. In Camden, Brighton, Newark, Jackson, Detroit and so on and with God's grace, two human beings may still find love. And they too may live a fairy tale life just as grand as Meghan and Harry.
15
Being English I have to admit that we found the American Bishop went on just a bit to much...Camilla and Kate were trying hard to keep a straight face.
We found out that it was our own Archbishop of Canterbury who suggested him to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex...to the tower with him.
To be truthful when the American Bishop was interviewed after the wedding he seemed a real nice guy...maybe he was just trying a bit to hard .
Also the Duchess of Sussex evening dress was far better then her wedding dress made by Stella McCartney...her hair looked far better as well.
23
“Camilla and Kate were trying hard to keep a straight face.” Really? They indicated that to you personally?
4
Maybe you are blind...but even our TV are reporting on on it.
And I think I know my Royal Family better then you.
6
That is the style of preaching down here in the South, think about the experience you had and the meeting of 2 diverse religions/cultures, which below the surface have a lot in common. I think that a wonderful experience was had by millions of people around the world who had never step foot into a Southern black church.
11
Compare her lovely gown to that worn by Vanessa Redgrave for the wedding scene in the 1967 film "Camelot."
6
And the best we can come up with is the Kardashian’s for escapism? Just proves that only 200 years of history is nothing compared to a millennium.
6
Ugh, I extremely dislike when someone manages to bring up the K family name in every forum. It's a sign of obsession with them really. When you can't even look at a wedding in another part of the world without thinking about that family. Seriously they are really easy to avoid--just don't click the articles with them in it and turn the TV channel away from them.
18
1.9 billion people watched at least some part of today's wedding ceremony. A white Crown Prince of THE Anglophile nation married a beautiful woman of mixed heritage. The Royal House Windsor is now integrated. Who cares? I do. A message was sent today. Any little girl… of any heritage… can dream of becoming a princess… and it really could come true! Prince Harry and his new bride have further opened the doors of equality. It's a great day.
32
Yes - all little girls should aspire to become a princess. Ugh.... Higher goals, please. Like a teacher, lawyer, social worker, doctor, etc....
4
@Jim McGrath: And why should any little girl ever dream of becoming something so disgusting as a princess? Feminism has a VERY long way to go, apparently. Not to mention classism - is there anything more telling of it than "royalty"?
4
Americans needs to learn a lot from British Royalty about how they welcome a beautiful woman ( non-white) as one of their own.
As the Father of the Bride could not attend, Prince Charles willingly gave the bride away .
Way to go Brits !
32
To me, even the new Duchess' name has a fairy tale ring to it "Meghan Markle".
7
In addition to a great wedding It was nice the see that there were no barricades, riot police, bomb sniffing dogs and sharpshooters on top of Windsor Castle.
Where did the US go wrong?
17
Did you watch the same wedding ? There were guards (most likely armed) on the top of the Castle, there were barricades, and I saw photos of armed guards on patrol near the crowds.
2
George, you need to take a look at the article that describes all the security in Windsor.....to the tune of $ 40 million (or $ 30 million pounds). The fact that you didn't "see" it is probably because the cameras of the various networks did not focus on security except for the soldiers with machine guns in front of the crowds on the carriage ride down the straightaway in Windsor. And those crowds were behind barriers that set them apart from the road with the landau. (But in the center of Windsor, it did seem that the bride and groom were very close to the crowd.)
1
I did and I saw minimal security, mainly crowd control for onlookers. Compare this to Trump's inauguration parade. Police armed to the teeth and snipers everywhere.
Now it is readily clear why trump was not invited,
A quote from Shakespeare comes to mind:
"Such an act
That blurs the grace and blush of modesty,
Calls virtue hypocrite, takes off the rose
From the fair forehead of an innocent love
And sets a blister there."
27
Harry far from the throne has no obligation to play politics. Kudos to him for not doing so.
4
It was a FIRST commented on freely in the NY Times, how an African-American Episcopal bishop preached at a royal wedding, citing in the cadences of Black Preachers words from Martin Luther King.
However, another major First was the good bishop's citing at length the Jesuit, Teilhard de Chardin, in the presence of Elizabeth II when her forebear, Elizabeth I had Jesuits hanged, drawn, and quartered. Bishop Michael Curry quoted Teilhard:
Someday, after mastering the winds, the waves, the tides and gravity, we shall harness for God the energies of love, and then, for a second time in the history of the world, man will have discovered fire.
Did the current queen sense the disparity? Did Charles? I would like to think so since both are versed in England's history. One more Anglican tradition was shattered.
21
In his essay Two Cheers for the Monarchy, George Orwell explains why nations with constitutional monarchies tend to be stable: People have an innate need to create & believe in a mythos, national identity, ancient custom & pageantry. This is a relatively benign way of filling that need. Without it, they look to more dangerous ways of expressing these things. Since he was writing during the heyday of Hitler & Stalin, he knew wherefrom he spoke.
21
I'm glad you mentioned Orwell. He understood like few others that its's possible and desirable that progressive reform, intense dislike of dictatorships of whatever stripe and the symbols of constitutional monarchy to go hand in hand. It's no accident that some of the most egalitarian and stable countries on the planet are the constitutional and "socialist" monarchies of Scandinavia.
12
It was a very American ceremony, and you could detect the slightest bit of crawling skin, chagrin, and resignation on the royals. O the roast beef of old England might have been a more suitable wedding menu choice than shoo-fly pie.
4
Shoo-fly pie is Pennsylvania Dutch, silly.
1
Preaching about the power of love at a wedding is what preachers do. Bishop Curry did it very well. His words were well organized, well connected, and seemed ad hoc, but they were well thought out beforehand. Curry began with a quote from MLK and included the words of "A Balm in Gilead". He tied the power of love to the power of fire by referencing the French Jesuit Pierre Teilhard de Chardin -- a paleontologist who convinced the Catholic Church to accept the theory of evolution. Curry finished by referencing Chardin and MLK together. When we harness the power of love the way we harness fire, "we will be able to make of this old world, a new world. Love is the only way."
Curry delivered a timeless a wedding sermon. A century from now, public speakers will still be listening to it to learn how to do things right.
34
Big Boy.....spot on.....the intellectual power in his speech is what drew me in.
14
Congratulations to the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex! Thank you for the lovely respite from the Trump Administration which dominates our daily news. And unlike your beautiful nuptials...not in a good way!
Cheers!
22
She is beautiful as is her mother. I wish Meghan and Harry a happy life. The Queen of Hearts Princess Dianna would be very proud of her boys.
26
Mr. and Mrs. Prince did a great job of displaying, rather than trying to hide, Meghan Markle's African American heritage. The message they broadcast to the world was, "let's not give racism a chance".
With their prominent position, and substantial resources, they might actually be able to work together to make the world a better place; they seem to have an inclination in that direction, so let's hope, as Rev. Michael Curry suggested, they can succeed in giving LOVE a chance.
26
"That’s about $40 million, with the bill to be paid by British taxpayers." Money better spent than on a strongman-style US military parade with, oddly, a projected cost of the same amount to be paid by US taxpayers. Too late to throw a comparable bash for Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings over here (and inappropriate given their relationship as owner and property), how about a contribution to the new Poor People's Campaign instead?
1
This is a time to lay down swords and wish this beautiful couple the best. A pretty ceremony, some delicious prose from Bishop Curry and seeing the two of them smiling, kissing and holding hands was a testament to a very special day and the power of love to overcome ever-present adversaries. And know that you both have already transformed the UK. With any luck, this side of the pond may feel some too! Blessings you two!
19
Trying to figure out why this ceremony packed an emotional punch. There is so much suffering in the world, yet the wedding attendees represent the wealthy, privileged class seemingly untouched by common struggles. Why are we so moved by watching them?
22
good question. I don't know the answer, but I wonder also.
1
Because it’s pretty and pleasant?
10
Anyone who has trouble understanding why people might be affected by a lovely wedding...just shocking.
9
England is lucky to have Meghan.Our loss.
17
I think they won't give her back under any circumstance. She's lovely and a breath of fresh air. And she makes Harry happy.
6
Good-bye preconceived notions and hello moral leadership!
Prince Harry’s choice and Queen Elizabeth II’s enthusiastic approval of an American divorcee with African blood is a marvelous example of love and a new morality. The love is obvious. The new morality is that the royal family, which exists first and foremost because of blood lines, is embracing love and compatibility over family background.
Think about it.
The house of Windsor and much of the world is no longer indignant but delighted by the embrace of the individual over the clan, the recognition of free choice over narrow strictures of race and personal history. This is a salute to liberty and love as well as the shedding of ancient biases. This is the new morality borne of facing reality with hope not suspicion.
In so doing, the royals renew their moral leadership as they recognize the diminishing claim of blood alone.
Thank you, your Majesty for this sublime step forward for humanity.
32
The ceremony was a fusion of Royal pomp and African-American style with the sermon and song. Meghan looked stunning in that simple and beautifully cut wedding gown that I hope she sets a new style trend for brides. She was not a Disney princess but a mature and accomplished woman.
The love between Harry and Meghan was apparent from the glances and smiles as they appeared completely at ease with each other. I detected a little playfulness during the Bishop's sermon, perhaps sensing this was something new for the stuffy mainstream white protestants. I just wish Oprah would have shouted out "AMEN" and got up and swayed with the choir. Now that would have been a real culture shock for the gathering.
27
Congratulations, Harry and Meghan, now HRHs The Duke and Dutchess of Sussex!
Loved Miss Markle’s simple silk gown, with a fabulous diamond tiara, gorgeous lace train, simple diamond earrings as accessories. Elegant and restrained. Stunning.
Heavens, perhaps Meghan’s wedding dress will usher out that abomination, the ubiquitous, often dreadfully-designed strapless wedding gown. Most women just can’t wear them. And sleeves and necklines can be sooooo gorgeous!
20
What a lovely moment. The Monarchy takes a turn away from stiff and stultified, and steps in the path Diana set for her smart sons: committed to service, personable and warm, and relevant.
32
Markle's mother Doria Ragland looked absolutely beautiful even crying and fighting tears she was so pretty. No one is a pretty cryer! She has a gentle sweet almost ethereal quality, and her daughter Meghan Markle looks just her. Harry is a very lucky man. His wife will be beautiful for decades after most women fade. Doria Ragland's reaction to the wedding was my favorite moment along with the first time Harry saw his bride. That was sweet too.
71
Without any doubt, the happiest moment of 2018. Best wishes to both of you, Harry and Megan, may your futures be blessed and filled with joy. The world needs more events like this, especially with all of the chaos in Washington DC.
44
What a lovely wedding!! In the midst of scandal and tragedy, it is uplifting to see two individuals find each other and forge a path to share a life. True, they have money and resources, but they did it tastefully and beautifully. As a member of a biracial family, I am delighted to see that they sought to honor the legacy of both.
If you should happen to read this Meghan, I want to thank you for representing the better angels of the United States. You personify the cultural complexity and richness of the United States and know how to present it in a most compelling way. I wish you both happiness and a rich life together.
50
Who cares? Anyone who takes the time to comment on this message board, that's who. regardless of whether the person enjoyed the ceremony or not. That said, I enjoyed it, especially watching the BBC's streaming coverage, and best wishes to Prince Harry and Ms. Markle.
25
Spectacular Hybrid of American/English Culture. Fantastic Wedding displayed what this mixture can magnificently achieve. Forget unfortunate Mutation for the moment. Congratulations!
9
Perhaps this interracial royal wedding is a hopefully sign of things to come. I went into the house and my wife was watching a recording of it on MSNBC and Joy Reid was the host and she wasn’t sounding angry as she usually does. If that’s possible, just imagine what else can be as a result of today.
9
I'm not a huge fan of the royal family. I think most of them are lazy spongers who need to get a job I admire and respect the Queen and will truly mourn when she passes. Unlike most people, I have a soft spot for Charles. He's made a lot of terrible mistakes but it's nice to see him with the woman he loves. It's a shame he didn't have the guts to marry her when he had the chance; he could have saved himself and others a lot of grief.
But I loved this wedding. I'll never forget the little boy forced to walk behind his mother's coffin by an incredibly selfish(and self-indulgent) public and cowardly politicians. He said it himself; no child should be forced to do that. He's messed up a lot in the past. So it makes me happy to see that grief stricken boy grown into a young man who has purpose and is so much in love.
People forget that TWO people got married today and one was of African-American descent. Rev, Curry moved me to tears when he quoted Dr. King and when he mentioned the suffering of our slave ancestors, I sobbed. I never thought I'd see something like that in my lifetime, at any kind of 'royal' event. Shame on those members of the 'upper class' that Americans admire so much. Pity they don't know how to act in church. That behaviour would have had them thrown out of church in the 'hood'.
The world needs love so much right now so I'm grateful to Harry and Meaghan for sharing theirs with us. God bless them for years to come.
And I LOVED the dress!!!
40
Who in the "upper class" misbehaved at the wedding today and didn't know how to act in church, and what exactly did the do? I didn't get up at 4:00 to watch so I missed that and probably more too. I am dying to know.
3
I would suggest,Laura174, that you could not handle the workload that the royals contribute to Britain and the World.
3
Americans are so in love with the royal family. One of the reasons they still exist is all the money American tourists bring in. Watching the wedding coverage, it was interesting to see all the Americans who had paid for airfare and hotel rooms just to catch a glimpse of the happy couple. Those poor soldiers at Lexington and Concord must wonder why they bothered.
Only a portion of the royal family actually do most of the work. The rest just live off the British taxpayer and look down on people who are really making a difference. An American should be able to understand that.
This was not a "joyous event to counter what is usually gloomy news."
It was a spectacle of the rich and famous wasting £30 million of public money that could have been spent in innumerable ways that are really needed — for example, Britain's embattled National Health.
Celebrity worship is the refuge of people who vicariously put themselves in the other's place, but can never achieve it themselves. In the case of the monarchy, they also blindly support their own exploitation by the ruling class.
6
I should note that I probably would be a republican if I lived in Britain, but there is a case that the Royal Family does bring money into the country through tourism. The wedding is sort of an advert to visit the UK and considering the free coverage probably worth the money. Compare this to our Prince of Orange, who before he his family and cronies are through will have cost our treasury hundreds or millions of dollars in personal upkeep while not bringing in any revenue, tourism or otherwise to balance it.
12
£30 million would be a drop in the NHS' budget bucket.
2
Nauseating. The worst of two cultures. Vapid American cult of celebrity which awards d grade actors with wealth and adulation, meets British monarchy which awards spoilt naive sheltered would-be actors with wealth and adulation. Take you pick. Look I am happy if they are in love. And I will briefly check out her dress, but you need to step back a bit and think what this means for our societies.
36
Wonderfully reassuring and full of lessons for our time, the most important of which, is the power of symbol and ritual to heal.
14
I just stepped back a bit. It was a symbol of beauty and love transcending differences, which is good for all societies.
25
Happiness is a curse, no denying that.
3
Stop this obsession with royalty please. One should never be above an one else based on birth. They are welfare cheats of the highest order. The UK is not a democracy as long as such a class system exists. End this farce now and jail the royal family until they pay everything they’ve stolen from the tax payer back.
7
"One should never be above an one else based on birth." I should think our present president is reproof enough that not having a monarchy would make that possible.
3
And the USA is a democracy?.....where the President doesn’t win the majority of voters and where Congress & the Senate doesn’t reflect the majority of the population, so much for the rule by the majority. The Royals contribute to the U.K. coffers an extraordinary amount of money.
7
If she could get the Queen and her family to give back most or all what was stolen from their colonies then I would say that she brought a breath of fresh air to the monarchy.
8
How about their doing it when you, as a Bostonian and American, give back all that was built in your city & (our) nation by slaves?
12
Hear!....Hear!....maybe reparation is in order.
4
It was bigger than Donald Trump's inauguration.
81
There are some quinceaneras larger than Trump's inauguration ;)
4
The British Royal Family is working hard and successfully to embrace the times.Above all, respect for diversity and multiculturalism.While in the US, the First Family, ignorant, immoral, vulgar and disrespectful, is doing the exact opposite.
supported by at least one third of the population.Oh my.
48
This will be unpopular in this comments section but a fascination with royalty is a symptom of how far we have to go till a child can say 'I have equal opportunity to be everything I want to be.' I wish every couple well and this is no exception. However, a newspaper devoted to "All the news that's fit to print" should mention this news, but not splash it all over the place. Nauseating.
3
Can someone explain why the Coptic priest was included?
6
Episcopalian, broken away from Church of England after the Revolution but part of the Anglican Communion. Or were you trying to be snarky — in which case "Coptic" is a dog whistle for a racist comment.
3
I didn't realize a Coptic priest was included. My bad! Maybe a nod to Charles, who has said he wanted to reign as a defender of "faith," all faiths, not "the faith," i.e., the established Church of England?
4
The Coptic Church was in existence before the Church in Rome. Tradition has it that it was founded by the court official from Ethiopia, that the Apostle Thomas met on the road. It was the earliest Christian Church in Africa. Today, Coptic Christians are found world wide but their origins are in Ethiopia and Egypt.
1
I watched the wedding via BBC this morning and loved it. I wish the couple well and I was quite impressed with the nod the duchess' African American heritage.
14
I am still waiting for the media to explain why Ms Markle is consistently described as bi-racial, but Barack Obama was, and is,always described as black. They both have a white parent and a black parent.
85
Why should that matter to you?
2
Ms. Markle describes herself as bi-racial; they are honoring her preference.
4
Because that's how they identify themselves.
3
With all the dreck we are dragged through daily in our country, led by the most banal and tasteless of persons, I am saddened by the ignorant, spiteful comments posted here. Pomp and circumstance for two people in love is a welcome bromide offsetting corruption and payoffs to porn stars.
And as for those who criticized Bishop Curry, if you have never been to an African American church service, I urge you to do so. No sitting on one's derriere and zoning out in this venue. What you will experience is what has kept African American's surviving for years, despite all odds; pure unrestrained, unadulterated joy!
If we can't transcend the deluge of dreck with some expression of shared joy and happiness in other's good fortunes, here or across the pond, we are more lost than I imagined.
47
Except that Bishop Curry is not a priest, nor a bishop, of an African American Church. He is the presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church, which is historically, and today, a predominantly white church.
Which is why we Episcopalians love him. He has brought African American preaching concepts to our little corner of Protestantism, but he still makes lots of folks uncomfortable. When he was bishop of my diocese in North Carolina, I relished when he would be at our church for the annual confirmations of our youth. He has always been such a treasure.
I am so glad that he has garnered so much attention today. Our local bishop hits the Big Time.
19
Point well taken and I realize he is an Episcopalian, Yet he exudes the spirit of unpretentious, real Christianity. You can't beat that and the Episcopalian Church is indeed fortunate. I just hope his parishioners don't sit glued to their seats but embrace his infectious love.
I disagree. I zone out just as easily from the dry and boring to the bloviating histrionics of puffed up Black ministers that go on way too long. I was taken to that place on Saturday when minister Curry decided to make his long sermon more about him in the name of “love” than about curtailing his speech to his audience. Did the audience hear or enjoy his important words? and they were important. The audience or the ones they panned to for the most part seemed to frown, and snicker, (with the exception of Elton John’s husband,) and for the better part of his 13 minutes, there was an uncomfortable aura that permeated that beautiful church. While most of the commentators may have found it refreshing, the new Duchess will be living with her new British royal “peeps”, the ones that seemed none too entertained, I hope she keeps that in mind. The Prince looked in love and I loved it, but if he has to keep explaining and defending his American wife’s ways, you can bet that look will become withering. I think Duchess Meghan was trying to make a statement, and she did. She also needs to reflect on what happens when people who aren’t ready for quick change have it thrust in their face. Pace yourself Duchess, and you’ll be just fine.
Honestly, I had no intention of watching any of this. When I did, I cried. A beautiful respite from the other news of the day. So well done.
53
How much do I love that Megan was a little girl who didn't dream of being a princess or of marrying a prince?
Instead, she grew up dreaming of making the world a better place, of making a difference, of advocating for those who can't advocate for themselves, and of being a strong, independent woman like her mother.
That's precisely what a real princess should be.
Thanks for redefining and modernizing the definition of princess, Megan! Our daughters thank you!
53
The union of Meghan and Harry shone much needed light in a darkening world. A movingly musical, love filled ceremony, and a brilliant admixture of traditional black american culture & royal tradition. Imagine if we all let this little light shine.
33
The mother of Ms. Markle/the Duchess of Sussex radiated such grace and dignity and such love and happiness for her daughter and her new son-in-law that her tears brought tears to my eyes. No wonder Prince Harry thinks she is "awesome" and loves her daughter so much. Her presence seemed as natural (in a completely alien setting) as it was authentic with Prince Charles accepting her with warmth and grace.
88
Who cares? In this day and age, to pander to a monarchy is absolutely idiotic and outdated. They do nothing for the nation and sponge off the notion that some animals are created more equal than others. Being Indian, I have a deep seated anger and resentment against the entire British monarchy- the arrogance and entitlement just sickens me. Half of the family will probably wear the jewels they stole from India.
11
Or as my ancient Irish grandmother once remarked - the last king of England swinging from the guts and garters of the last English queen- that's the only 'royal event' that might be be worth watching.
2
May you heal...when it is time and you are ready.
6
While I agree with most of what you said. I find India most imitative of the British, and the horrors against people perpetrated by your culture of “caste” is one of the most barbaric in the world. I can’t believe that I sound as if I am defending the British, but as an outsider it really looks as though most Indians worship the British royalty as their Gods.
To many of the posters herein I think Sgt. Hulka in “Stripes” said it best, “Lighten up, Francis.”
11
Marriage of Prince Harry and Meagan. What a wonderful break from that "train-wreck" known as Donald J.Trump and his cabal of nimcompoops! I loved it!
67
“We must love one another or die”. WH Auden.
29
For ever the cynic, the 8 hours on the tube got trump out of the news
33
Here in America we have school shootings, and Trump trampling all over everything of value, lacking grace and class, but with a gold toilet. In Britain today the sun shone on this re"markle" able wedding, with a lone, demure mother of the bride, African American, the white father and his embittered white offspring, a reverse of the Cindarella story. The Episcopal preacher did go on too long and did not notice the looks the bride and groom gave each other, just short of eye rolling. Markle will take this seriously and accomplish much like her friend Barack Obama.
32
Here in America we have true democracy. We can vote trump out. The royals are there, forever. Shame on Americans who think this is OK
7
The Queen does not govern. The democratically elected Prime Minister and Cabinet do. The Brits are smart enough to separate the roles of government and head of state, as do all countries that are consstitutional monarchies.
2
A television personality who is president and now a television personality who is a duchess! “Who'd a thunk it?”- Mortimer Snerd,
9
Am I the only observer of this media marathon who feels like "deju vu all over again"? First the world-splashed wedding, then the marital discord and infidelities. Please, the British monarchy has become a boring tale of all-over-again. Enough.
6
I'm surprised that the New York Times would waste so much space and energy gushing over such a meaningless and frivolous event. The decaying residues of British imperialism are hardly cause for celebration.
11
Nor is your joyless negativity.
9
The usual negative boo birds...enjoy the day , enjoy the ceremony...get over yourselves...it’s not about you...
29
The Prince really married up.
16
I'm a born Briton, but an American since age 18.
Really NYT? Really? So much coverage of this medieval pantomime of a quintessentially anti-democracitc institution and country?
That country, as it did my revolutionary foremothers and forefathers... revolts me.
8
I'm 1/4th British on my dad's side, so I have a fondness for all things British -- tea, scones, clotted cream, even corgies. Opulent weddings, not so much. If I was a British taxpayer, I'd be peeved at THIS MUCH money & fuss for a wedding for a young man who is SIXTH in line from the throne.
6
You have to admit it. The British people know how to throw a royal wedding.
25
But they've got nothing on their former selves, when it comes to royally throwing an election...
Fake dossier - don't count!!!
Aren't royal families the epitome of the top one percent that the New York Times so often disparages?
13
"Charles Spencer, the Earl of Althorp"? Nope. He's "Earl Spencer". His son is "Viscount Althorp".
6
Great, so it's over.....?
1
I've never seen a duller wedding ceremony, in particular the guests. Close up footage of the very tired old vows (god god god blah blah) showed the father of the groom just feet away but not even paying any attention, most people looking down or at some paperwork, and nobody in the place smiling. Very unemotional and forgettable. As neither of these two likely believe in supernatural sky daddies, one wonders if the vows actually have any force.
8
I thought Charles had fallen asleep, but then I realized he might well have his head down so he could play Candy Crush or something on his smartphone.
5
Something finally to be happy about ! Meagan brought up some pride in being American that I thought had been completely destroyed by Trump , the christians and the patriots !
27
Ain't it strange how we in the former "Colonies" - on both sides of the Atlantic - get drawn into watching this Circus?
6
I guess I'll be the grump here. All of this talk about modernity and diversity is so silly. Meghan Markle is going to be surrounded by rich white people for the rest of her life. She has never been engaged with minority communities, and she certainly won't be doing that now. She'll do what all royalty does - attend fundraisers, banquets, and shmooze with the world's wealthy oligarchs. The monarchy isn't going to change, and Britain is not being "nudged" into a new era. Sorry to be a downer. It was a beautiful ceremony. The fluff is just too much.
19
Hard not to be jealous of how idyllic and regal the ceremony in England was, compared to our politician monsters craven for lucre and power.
15
I don’t blame royal pomp and circumstance for my cynasism of an otherwise lovely human celebration, I blame it on crass commercialism. After reading a lot of the sweet comments this morning I had a change of heart and decided to take a look at the accompanying slide show of the opulent pageantry, but couldn’t thanks to all unrelenting tasteless product ads that seem to clutter and ruin everything worth anything anymore.
5
To make religion the core of it all rather than the inner strength of the new husband and wife is a falsehood centuries old - when do we accept reality and live in the here and now.
2
Am I the only one who thinks Megan’s dress makes her look like she’s taking nun’s vows? Understated is an understatement....but congrats to the happy couple.
7
Did not like the dress at all...very disappointed...yet her evening dress is far better.
3
She's a very beautiful young actress with a flawless figure, so frankly she could have thrown on an old feed sack and she'd look fabulous.
It was a very severe, covered up dress IMHO for someone that young & beautiful. No ornamentation, no jewelry except a tiara -- plain, plain, plain. Her choice of course.
As I told my friend (we were both watching the live coverage online): "if an ordinary woman with an ordinary figure put on that dress...she'd look like a sausage fitted out in a white satin casing."
3
I have seen Meghan in tops/sweaters with that same wide neckline and she typically dresses in an understated style so the gown seemed in keeping with who she is fashion-wise. I was surprised by the veil and street-dragging train but perhaps that was her nod to pageantry.
4
Having waited months for the wedding, thinking Meghan would be beautiful and another fairytale wedding would take place...I was disappointed. It was not that her dress was plane and jewelry not flashy, but her hair and makeup did not do her justice. I'm sorry, but for such a beautiful woman, she looked played down. I did not care for the sermon at all, nor the music. Prince Charles was wonderful, and the bride's mother truly touched at her daughter's wedding, lovely. The queen was stunning in her colorful dress & hat, as always. I had to just turn off my tv after watching the ceremony, I was disappointed. It is their day, if they are happy with the ceremony, that's great. I thought it could have been SO much more. I do wish them all the best.
20
I thought the bride looked timeless. Not overly done up with all hair and makeup. Very classy and classic. Less is more.
33
It was bound to be a delicate balance for the wedding - between elegant and relatable, between public and personal, between traditional and modern. And Harry and Meghan themselves embody all those elements.
10
The music was the best part! Well, nearly the best--the bride and groom's love and connection stole the show.
17
This was such a lovely wedding with the diversity also being celebrated - a breath of happiness in a world turning so dark with hatred. And not a whiff of trump - so refreshing; it's as if he didn't even exist.
236
Maybe I misunderstand the logic. Why should there be a whiff of Trump? It's Europe!! THEY, the British, didn't vote for such a despicable creature, he's not part of their "culture", they lucked out.
1
Hurray. Indeed a day without Trump. A holiday.
4
Thank God there was not a whiff of trump.
2
She was a gorgeous bride and I loved, loved, loved her dress! So elegant and beautiful, and the "something borrowed" tiara from the Queen herself was just right. It's obvious that Harry and Meghan are truly taken with each other. Another addition to the royal great-grandchildren should be expected sometime next year, and more power to them. There are very few who don't love a good love story, and this romance is a great one. Congrats to the couple.
17
Wait and see...she will have to keep her family in line...if not Harry will end up on some remote far away land like his great great uncle and Wallis Simpson did.
2
At this moment in the history of man kind,it is good to see a moment of love and openness toward each others.
19
As your royal carriage makes its way past the happy crowds we wish them well; but what of young people in Britain today; what future for them in this world of class-driven wealth and success. As reported in the GUARDIAN today over 10 per cent of teenagers clinically diagnosed with mental health issues. Young people see the world differently today. This may be a factor in the rate of gun crime in the US today. How can young Americans express their anger or desperation without taking out their frustration with a gun? By engaging with different age groups and seeing life not just in terms of success and failure in a very competitive society? We cant all be WARREN BUFFET.
7
The obscene amount of money spent on this wedding could have been put to better use helping those kids with mental health issues.
Instead, the National Health has to battle for adequate funding.
1
I guess I was one of few who questioned Bishop Curry's choice of words and delivery. The British press apparently loves it. However, I did notice a touch of a frown on Her Majesty's face. Prince Philip seemed interested however.
Whatever the "chattering classes" say, i and millions of others, really enjoyed today. There was also a marvelous rendition of "My Country Tis of Thee"!
11
I'm not a fan of performances.
And that bit about fire, combustion engines, and cars was silly.
But if others liked Bishop Curry, there we are.
On another note: Today's op-ed about the British monarchy's being a "matriarchy" had some elements of truth, but this sentence didn't cut it for me: '[Queen Elizabeth II], and her granddaughters-in-law the Duchess of Cambridge and, soon, Ms. Markle, are understood to represent the nation by doing and saying nothing other than embodying conventionally “feminine” virtues.'
Let's please remember that this Queen of England drove trucks during World War Two and -- speaking of combustion engines -- knows how to repair them. That's more than at least some liberated American women have ever done either for themselves or for their country.
16
The Queen had to approve everything about the ceremony ahead of time. She knew she was going to get a rousing sermon from a black American Episcopalian bishop; however, some of the looks on others' faceless - priceless!
12
I doubt that Her Majesty was upset by Bishop Curry’s sermon. As recently recounted in “The Crown’, the Queen had personal audiences with Billy Graham in the 1950’s to discuss theological concerns.
1
It was a lovely wedding but maybe a bit too informal. Some of the music provided seemed a bit out of place for such a British Royal wedding. The sermon by the Episcopalian Reverend Curry seemed too showy and inappropriate. I would love to be a fly on the wall and hear the comments of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. I am sure we would get an earful.
23
The Queen approved all of it beforehand; it wasn't a surprise to her. If other people were annoyed, so what?
7
The wedding was not for the Queen and Prince Philip. The wedding was for Harry and Megan.
13
When Obama was being inaugurated the first time, an enterprising NPR reporter interviewed a former servant for the White House. (The servants there used to be, mostly, African_American.) The man shared a charming story of having a drink with Prince Philip, who insisted upon he, the prince, serving the servant. (No, he wasn't drunk.) It make me think that a lot of Philip's famous political incorrectness might be an act. Anyway, I would bet that he and Elizabeth are like any grandparents--they just want the kid to be happy.
11
While I haven't been terribly enamored by Meghan's staginess, this wedding was perfectly beautiful and flawless. The music was sublime and the bride was beautiful, as was her mother.
22
Some joyful news, an appreciated break for my soul.
It was a beautiful ceremony.
27
Wishing Harry and Meghan all the best of happiness and good health . What a lovely and appealing young couple ! .
But , overall , what a waste of time and money .
The ultimate anachronism - " A Royal wedding... " .
5
And here's an oxymoron: empowered, feminist princess.
5
Didn't we fight the Revolutionary War so we wouldn't be bothered with this stuff?
16
You didn't have to watch or read about it.
13
We did but the public is too dumb to realise it. The royal family arête tbook welfare cheats. They should be dethroned and jailed. If England thinks it’s a democracy they are truly dreaming. Shane on Americans who think this farce is right
2
I a, not a fan of any toyals, by far. However, I will say they do know how to handled themselves at these sort of big occasions. They are well schooled, contain emotions, and semmingly behave themselves.
6
ellie k.,
Perhaps you haven't noticed that royals "behave themselves" for the length of the wedding ceremony and, after that, anything goes. The Queen's sister Margaret (deceased), Prince Charles and his waywardness, his siblings (remember Sarah, the daughter-in-law?), etcetera, etcetera. Too many to mention. The newspapers love them because they cause headlines, usually about royals not "behaving themselves". The British tradition is that only appearances matter.
2
Not a fan of royals but really luv Harry married his beloved 'bi-racial' beautiful bride at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle as setting - place where his 5x great-grandmother Queen Charlotte - Britain's alleged 1st Black (biracial) Queen - is buried.
Hmmm!
6
This article is about the royal wedding not about Donald Trump. Why must the detractors of President Trump inject their hatred on our President within every article when this is not about him.
I love England and visit at least once a year but they are not without their faults and foibles. President Trump was voted by a sizable number of people (the electoral college) who think he is doing a fine job. We would elect him again if given the opportunity.
9
The obsession and the hatred is an outlet for internal unhappiness. Besides, for a large subset of the population, the personal is political.
3
'Why must the detractors of President Trump inject their hatred on our President ...'
Why must our morbidly hate-filled president inject hate-filled rhetoric into every issue?
7
Trump was elected by a minority of people.
Glad for you who think he is dong a one job.
Hope you don't have opportunity to elect him again.
Please enjoy the yoke and blinders you so willfully wear.
6
To think a bi-racial love affair between an American woman with one of Britain's royals would lead to their royal wedding is absolutely beautiful and nothing BUT joyful. Bob Dylan sang it best, "the times, they are a-changin.' And isn't it wonderful?
20
it was such a shame that the Obamas had to opt out of this wonderful wedding, Apparently, it would have been inappropriate for them to be in attendance given that Trump was not invited.
21
No foreign heads of state were invited to the wedding.
10
The Obamas are no longer “heads of state”......
4
I read that Meghan Markle wanted to invite the Obamas but the British Royal family must not become involved in political issues or invite political figures to wedding events. It was also reported that Ms. Markle loved Obama but did not like President Trump. She has said some rather unflattering things publicly about him but will have to be more diplomatic since she has joined the royal family. She will no longer be able to be outspoken about her political leanings which tend to tilt progressive. She must now remain neutral at least in public.
1
Is there any racial issues in UK? Certainly Meghan Markle played a major role in improving racial and black Americans relations in the US. Perhaps she will have more impact than Martin Luther King civil rights movements. MLK is history and Meghan will continue inspire many black Americans. The British Royal family played an important role in helping black Americans. All black ladies will have a better dream in the future. America cannot survive without Great Britain's inspiration. I enjoyed the TV show and it is much better than watching Trump on TV.
3
As big an impact as Martin Luther King? You can't be serious. And of course America could survive without Great Britain. Great Britain is more dependent on America than America is dependent on Great Britain.
11
Absolutely smashing. As I'm sure the after party reception(s) was too!
7
Aside from it's always fun to watch a royal wedding the best thing about turning on the news this morning was there wasn't the endless babble about Trump. Thank you your royal highnesses!
42
Some of you commenting just have to be spoilers. As my granny used to say; "Sounds like you're sucking on some bitter lemons."
19
The real spoilers are the people who spent £30 million on a wedding rather than give it to the embattled National Health, which is desperately short of funds
Many people choose to live in fairyland and worship the rich and famous rather than give thought to the welfare of working people.
2
Oh, damn...how the world needed to see this, and particularly we here in the US. I cried throughout the entire video. Congratulations to this beautiful young couple who cheered us, even for a short period of time.
26
"how the world needed to see this," That this is what "cheers" the world says alot about why the world is in such a sorry state. Fairy tales are for children.
1
I wonder if they'll be watching the FA cup final?
2
Also amazing about the Royal Wedding - how do you get so many kids in the wedding party ages 2 to 7 to behave so well? Makes me think they all have parents who are rising them right.
25
I was surprised that the Episcopalian minister, Mr. Curry, would bring up American slavery during his sermon. Slavery was a terrible occurrence in our country but this seemed out of place for this Royal celebration. This is just my humble opinion but politics should have been avoided during this lovely wedding.
18
He was speaking about love - even during trying times as witnessed by those enslaved.
5
No, WPLMMT, what this wedding needed was a good dose of reality. Everything about it, including the guest list, was excruciatingly unreal.
I thought it was wonderfully appropriate.
8
One tiny caveat re: the so-called modernization of the Royals. This wedding would never have happened if Harry had of been the first born.
11
I can't wait for the day we no longer have to refer to someone as biracial. Of course I'll be long dead by then.
15
We don’t have to do that today. It’s a choice some people make for political reasons.
3
It's Ms. Markle's choice to call herself biracial. I don't see it as an attempt to downplay her African heritage. She has a very light complexion and some might think her family is from the Middle East, Greek, Mexico, etc. By referring to herself as biracial she makes it clear what her heritage is.
5
I’m hoping they move to Hollywood and Harry takes her last name, considering he doen’t have one of his own to begin with. Harry Markle makes him sound almost normal now. Hollywood Hills, studio position, BMW, life on the Sunset Strip, now life can really begin for Harry and Meghan. Better yet, LAUSD’s finest public schools for the royal progeny. Now we’ve really finally beat the British.
Throw in Macrobiotic veganism, yoga for him, Pilates for her, blue skies and sunshine, palm trees . . . Jackson Browne as royal minstrel. It will make the dreary House of Windsor turn green with envy.
Those British. They do pageantry like no one else. Don't they? Don't they?
11
As I watched the day's events commence, I had a sad feeling that we may be seeing the last of the Duke of Edinburgh, who seems to have summoned his energy reserves to make it to the ceremony. God love her, the Queen wouldn't be far behind when that happens.
Per the family's self-designated genealogist, our lineage is pre-colonial. That's over three hundred years and a lot of marriages on this side of the Atlantic. However, I've just discovered through one of those DNA kits that I'm 100% British Isles. That's tough to do in a land full of immigrants. Mom, anything you wanna tell me?
1
I don't know, all things considered the Prince looked pretty energetic and agile to me.
4
i was very happy to see the Duke, and without a cane or any other assistance.
4
I don’t think it’s fair to ‘predict’ a person’s demise. Prince Phillip is very frail and I wish him well. Queen Elizabeth II seems very robust, in overall great health, and in possession of all her faculties. Why make such predictions, anyway?
6
I did not like Bishop Curry's sermon at all. Too histrionic, too literal, too theatrical and sprinkled with annoying lapses into gratuitous and studied informality that compromised the dignity of the ceremony and reduced his presence to an unwanted familiarity. Finally, his constant refrain "If you don't believe me...." undercut a message unconvincing in the first place and was insulting to the audience. In any case the event wasn't about "me" .
I hope Harry and William are not the "modernizers" who will take the "Royal" out of Royal Family. It was not encouraging to see the two brothers work the crowd yesterday looking like too stock brokers on their lunch hour. Open collar, no tie and pedestrian duds (the kind I wear).
Finally, missing from the otherwise happy event was the late Princess Diana. She was indeed the "People's Princess" with the emphasis on Princess.
66
Diana was not princess Diana; she was Diana, Princess of Wales.
3
I thought that Bishop Curry's homily was a refreshing note of reality in this royal charade that the British support at the expense of the British people.
6
It was just awful. I finally had to stop listening -- I was ashamed both to be an American and to be an Episcopalian. Whose terrible idea was it to invite him?
8
I don't follow the Royals but must applaud these two young people. They seem to share a genuine and deep affection for each other. Loved the service, the incorporation of African American culture, music and folklore. Ms. Markle, now the Duchess of Sussex will not be erased. Bravo!
33
What a beautiful couple and their feelings for each other were genuine. I wish them the best and many years of happiness. A lovely ceremony, kudos all around.
18
I don't know how she did it, but Meghan Markle has de-WASPified British royalty. Reverend Curry's references to MLK and John Lennon, and the choir's beautiful rendition of "Stand By Me" were stunning, inspiring historical milestones for a country acknowledging its multiracial future.
36
Actually, the Royals have WAPSified Meghan.She's now C of E, with a title, negated democratic rights, and the subject of (meaning subjected to) the will of her grandmother-in-law, then her father-in-law, then her brother-in-law.
6
Whatever, she seems very happy about it.
Elizabeth gave her blessing to this, something that would not have been accepted just a couple of decades ago. Remember the fuss over Camilla's being a divorcee?
And I very much doubt there have ever been that many people of color in that church at the same time, as guests and participants.
5
It was a beautiful wedding. I was drawn into the power of the moment. I don't want to interject politics into this union, but the Royal Family did the world a wonderful thing by bringing humanity into this ceremony.
71
Those royals being showered with praise were absolutely horrible to Harry’s mother, Charles was in particular.
Perhaps they can find some redemption by offering Miss Markle the kindness and respect they denied Diana.
11
Diana had a lot of problems. She and Charles were not a good match. It's a shame that they were pressured into getting married.
I'm not excusing how the queen and Charles treated Diana, but she was certainly not an easy person to be married to.
I think Harry's bride has his mother's fighting spirit, but also the ability to handle publicity's glare, which Diana did not possess.
I think Diana would've appreciated both of her sons's wives.
19
Harry found his Princess.
Their love for each other
is touching and beautiful.
13
The dress was wonderful. I suppose by the bride's choice of a long white gown for her wedding the audience was to go along with the pretense that this was her first trip down the aisle. This denial of reality made the whole wedding uncomfortable to watch. The MLK sermon to the Royal Family was over the top.
15
The white dress is a costume, not a symbol of purity.
16
The underhanded snark is strong with this one.
I don’t know what you thought she should have worn, but plenty of second-time brides wear white dresses. Even Kim Kardashian wore a long white dress and veil to her second wedding, and God knows she’s no paragon of virtue or class.
This was neither the time nor the place to break out, say, a flamingo-pink mermaid-style ensemble that I’ve seen some American brides cram themselves into. You may have thought she “den[ied] reality”, but I just thought she looked beautiful.
16
A white dress meant something many years ago, get with the program it’s 2018.
16
A fashion analyst on BBC America mentioned Clare Waight Keller's name shortly before the ceremony began. The info someone had shared with her was good.
I love how Meghan and Harry celebrated both of their heritages during their ceremony. That was worth getting up early in order to see.
33
There more people were on the streets of Windsor than were at the President Trumps inauguration. Perhaps there's hope for the world.
121
Struggling to find the relevance...
6
Ha! Too funny. Hope Trump, the egotistical fool, hears this - ‘twill be entertaining to hear him rant about his fake ‘numbers ‘.
6
Some people have unique challenges.
At 3 seconds into the video -- take a look at Meghan Markle's smile. It reminds me so much of the smile on the Mona Lisa painting. In the crazy world that we're living in today, it was so nice to have an oasis of beauty, serenity and love for a few hours and watch the wedding ceremony.
56
rlkinny in New York, "it was so nice to have an oasis of beauty, serenity and love for a few hours" You can always just go to the movies. Or watch Netflix.
2
As a 50 year old, single, bitter, American man with no loyalties to the British Monarchy, I'd like to say that I cried during the wedding.
She's beautiful. He's so handsome. Bless them both.
183
LOL, great post. I wish I could like it a million times.
18
This wedding was absolutely perfect! Bishop Curry had me yeling Amen and I know that's right at the TV. He took us to church, and spoke so eloquently about love.
56
Nobody does pomp and circumstance like the British. This was spectacular. Best of luck to this lovely couple. As a person of British decent, I couldn't be prouder.
42
Rev. Curry gave a homily for the ages.
As Nick Lowe put it long ago “what’s so funny about Peace, Love and Understanding.”
26
A beautiful fairy tale come true. Proof that tradition can graciously blend with real people in a disorienting time. Best wishes to the royal couple and sincere gratitude for a wedding that celebrates not only love and hope but redemption.
I haven’t been so moved since the Obamas moved into the White House.
71
I needed a reason to be a happy American today. This was it.
52
Wonderful wedding.....we look forward to the first gay Royal wedding one day!Couldn’t help but reflect, during the ceremony,if the USA would be in better political shape now if we had the Westminster parliamentary system.
7
Charles’s stock just went sky high on account of the tender gallantry he displayed toward both Meghan and her mother.
136
Agreed. But it is too bad he hadn't mellowed enough while still married to Diana to treat her as she should have been treated.
1
Agreed. Prince Charles was genuinely solicitous and courteous- a real gentleman.
3
A fun and beautiful wedding...the little boys holding the bride's train were priceless. How I envy a nation that can gather in a huge public celebration without having to know that half the populace is carrying handguns.
119
All monarchies are monopolies.
4
"All monarchies are monopolies."
Yes, and our monarchy here has declared bankruptcy about eight times, American banks have given up lending to it, it routinely defrauds just about everyone who has contact with it (contractors, employees, and so on); its brood, far from being charitable, is about nothing but seeking money for itself; and the monarch himself can't speak a decent English sentence -- while he rants about Spanish-speaking immigrants.
Learn English! Learn English! Oh, Donald, why don't you?
2
I wish the couple happiness but I'm sceptical about the idea that this will in itself change the royal family let alone the country. I remember exactly the same thing being said about Diana as a bride - it was going to be the end of stuffiness, a new warmer Royalty. Yet Royalty refused to unstuff and Diana's marriage failed.
The only changes Harry and Meghan can make are to their own way of doing things. The Queen and Charles aren't going to change their way of thinking or behaving as a result of who their son/grandson marries. I don't think we should place this sort of portentous weight on anyone's marriage. They'll have enough pressure without being singlehandedly made responsible for the end of other people's privilege and prejudice.
55
Diana did, in fact, change the British Monarchy permanently. These two are more on the periphery but this was the best, most joyful royal wedding yet.
13
The royals aren't celebrities, they are constitutional personages, the Queen the living embodiment of an unwritten constitution.
2
The fact that Harry was able to choose his bride -- three years older, American, divorced, actress, bi-racial -- seems evidence that both the Queen and the Prince of Wells have in some ways changed their thinking.
3
I am still smiling. As jaded as I have become, it was sheer magic to see two people obviously enthralled and in love with each other-enjoying their moment with the rest of us. The ceremony was extraordinary in its embrace of the modern and the traditional:
What a pleasurable break from the madness swirling around us.
60
A lovely wedding!
Wishing them a life full of love, peace, and happiness!
I have a good feeling that their union will bring about positive change in our world!
49
What a wonderful and beautiful wedding! The diversity was spectacular and made this particular royal wedding special. I am sure Princess Diana would be very proud of her youngest son Harry for bringing the British royal family into the 21st century. May they have happiness and peace together.
53
The English monarchy, that bastion of tradition and inflexibility, just opened a window and let in fresh air - for real. From Princess Margaret, Fergie, and the Princess Diana tragic "debacles" (not really debacles but vulnerable people dealing with reality in an inflexible environment), today the agony of the monarchy's dealing with such change seems to be finally over. It seems like they may become one happy family - note Camilla completely in the fold with her husband looking happy and relaxed, both looking like an old married couple who are still in love.
I have issues with monarchies, but today, England truly became a decent place on a certain level and lived up to its tradition of fair play.
Tradition can be a good thing and need not be stuffy.
Best wishes to our cousins across the pond.
50
This spot on delightful piece of journalism reminds me of why our family has been reading the NYT for 50 years. The writer captures the moment in time in all its enjoyment to the outsider.
31
Lovely wedding. Beautiful bride, handsome groom, spectacular weather, heavenly music, a rousing, joyous sermon about love and the pomp and ceremony at which the British monarchy excels. And the mother of the bride was elegant, beautifully-understated in her dress with just the right amount of love, pride, and pleasure in her eyes and on her lips as she gazed at her lovely daughter and her charming new son-in-law.
79
I reject the idea of royalty in part because there is a thread that runs from royalty to corporate control of nations that is as at least as old as America. Our nation’s founding patriots had a deep distrust of corporations, and for good reason. The British Colonies were corporations chartered by the king and given the right to govern, such as the Virginia Corporation and the Massachusetts Bay Company, and British laws forced the colonists to trade under disadvantageous terms with the East India Co., the mother of all British crown corporations.
The American Revolution overthrew not only King George III’s sovereignty over the colonies but also the power of the first huge corporations, and people of the era understood this. The distrust of corporations ran so deep that Thomas Jefferson proposed, unsuccessfully, that freedom from monopolies be included in the Bill of Rights. He later wrote, “we hope that we shall crush in its birth the aristocracy of our moneyed corporations, which dare already to challenge our government to a trial of strength, and bid defiance to the laws of our country.”
Then President Abraham Lincoln made an alarming observation in a letter in 1864: “ Corporations have been enthroned and an era of corruption in high places will follow, and the money power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until all wealth is aggregated in a few hands and the Republic is destroyed”.
16
reply to rich: There was a WEDDING this morning; did you forget to notice?
8
We also can't forget to notice the corporate and governmental corruption that is at the heart of our societies, alas.
3
Wow--The quote from Lincoln that you cite is chillingly prescient. Although you are commenting on the royal wedding, I imagine you could submit your comment to any number of articles in the Times today.
4
This new generation of royals might just by example blunt the edge of prejudice, nastiness and xenophobia that has swept not only their nation but others, including the home country of the bride.
Harry may have been born into privilege and Meghan married into it; but unlike the dominant financial aristocrats of all nations, they seem genuinely interested in a better world for all, not just for themselves. The young couple show the best face of their respective countries to the world, not the worst that we have seen all too much of lately, and they will have influence. I hope they can use it.
And I write as one to whom socialism is not a dirty word.
83
Jefferson said that the greatest danger to the American democracy was great inherited wealth; From Trump, to the Kochs, the government we have is proof of it.
17
The "taxpayers" may have spent tons of money, but far more was returned to the British economy by the the throngs of tourists coming to see the spectacle.
38
connecticut--Her's the scoop on who pays for the royal wedding. Spoiler alert: not that much from taxpayers.
https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/956827/royal-wedding-cost-who-...
4
And where do you think the money for the Royal Family comes from?
It's from wealth that is both inherited and derived from rents and investments.
None of it is earned.
Ultimately, it is paid by taxpayers: by the workers whose labor is exploited for profit.
4
It's easy to criticize the wealth and extravagance - and the critiques might be warranted. But I prefer to see this as two people, committed to the same ideals of justice, who have suffered sadness from family events, finding each other in this big, mean world. She is extraordinary - the Bishop's speech was radical in a stuffy English church as was her decision on who would walk her down the aisle and when... There is a lot of good stuff here, beyond the cynicism.
90
Let us remember George Washington, and shower him with praise and gratitude this day.
17
Definitely let us not forget that our business class's disgust with that newly- invented British Parliament was ratcheted up to the point of revolution because of their fear that it would abolish slavery, which the courts were already attacking at the roots.
6
George Washington only became an American patriot and rebel after being turned down for a commission in the British Officer Corps.
6
I love and admire Washington more than most but always, always, remember his slaves.
8
Much, much ado about utterly nothing.
22
Dear, Discerning, I absolutely agree with you.
2
But you cared enough to click on the story, and then to add a comment.
3
Oh, the Bard would beg to differ, I’m pretty sure of that.
1
Amazing and surreal; what a breath of fresh air to the British monarchy; truly a statement to the world.
25
Though a political and liberal Democrat, I admire everything that is aristocratic in life. The British Royal Family is a world treasure despite more than occasional failings. Their traditions, behavior, dress, buildings, codes of conduct, etiquette etc. elevate all of us and stand as models for us to admire. There would not be an England without the Royal Family. Indeed, for me they are the world's Royals and may they reign forever.
36
Our resident-in-chief should pick up a clue or two from the behavior of the royal family grown-ups, so should his kids. What a contrast.
10
More correctly; there would not be a United States of America without the belief that circumstances of birth birth mandate privilege, and the right to colonize all within reach for their eternal benefit.
2
this is true, though my comment was about behavior only, I wasn't taking up the larger issue of colonialism. Most monarchies left in Europe keep themselves protected from harsh criticism by requiring family members to behave (when adult) as responsible, thoughtful people who are duty-bound. This is what allows continued support when talk of dissolving monarchies comes up. Trump thinks of himself as a monarch, this much is obvious. He has--since his young adulthood--glommed onto what he thinks and often are, the trappings of royalty (thus the mania for gold decor). What he and some of his family don't understand or express is this other component of many (but not all) current monarchies: manners, respect, duty.
8
This comment thread, while largely supportive, has the usual depressingly negative grumbles from those few who think the monarchy is obsolete. Such commenters obviously know little or nothing about the actual meaning and work of the monarchy as representative of the history and tradition of the nation as well as the practical, day to day work of supporting charities, representing the nation officially and so on. Do these negativists actually think an elected presidency has more dignity and style? It certainly isn't less expensive. Compared to the cost of the American president, the monarchy is bargain basement. At least the queen doesn't need a 747 for regular golf weekends at Maralago, at a cost of millions per flight. Further, many people, even British people, are unaware than the royal establishment is largely paid for out of income from the crown lands, not tax money. The queen gets an allotment from that income, the remainder going onto the general treasury. From that allotment, she pays the expenses of her household.This wedding, for example, was paid for by the queen. The government paid for security services
98
Thank you for that clarification. I also read the Queen now pays taxes.
What I think people overlook is the stability the Queen represents as well. Although she can be stodgy, Princess Diana and her subsequent death really started the ball rolling towards change. I truly think that Queen thinks of herself as serving her people, not herself - so unlike some of our presidential history. Actually it is closer to the Amcient Spartan way of ruling; they had two kings to balance the power and archons chosen by the people to make sure the kings did not overstep thir power and could remove them.
11
The income from Crown lands is derived from the labor of others.
It is not earned by the Royal Family, whose "work" is largely a sinecure.
1
The same could be said of any rental property. Are you advocating some sort of obsolete Marxist notion of ending private property? As for the work of the monarchy being a sinecure, you might want to take a look at the Queen's daily schedule. Even in old age she is still taking care of a lot of duties. Representing the nation by receiving visiting dignitaries, giving official dinners and other events, awarding honors etc is work ALL heads of state have to do. It takes up a lot of time. Why should the politicians who actually have to run the country do it when someone like the queen does it so much better?
There is a natural aristocracy among men. The grounds of this are virtue and talents... There is also an artificial aristocracy founded on wealth and birth, without either virtue or talents; for with these it would belong to the first class... The artificial aristocracy is a mischievous ingredient in government, and provision should be made to prevent its ascendency." -- Thomas Jefferson to John Adams, 1813
12
In Jefferson's time, wealth and titled aristocracy were synonymous. Today we have a financial aristocracy with no formal titles but just as artificial, divorced from virtue and talents, and far more mischievous than anything Jefferson could have foreseen. It too is founded on wealth and birth, and is strengthened every time inheritance taxes are lowered.
14
Ah, but both were white men, and Jefferson had slaves. Remember everything about our founding fathers, all that was magnificent, and that which was ghastly. Freedom and liberty were for white men only.
6
None of that rendered them incapable of stating the truth, nor our recognizing it in spite of the sources.
1
"Kate and William’s wedding was solemn, stately, stuffy, full of dignitaries, politicians, and the sort of boring personages known here as the great and the good."
At the time it was noted for NOT being like that, the guest list including largely personal friends and no heads of state.
25
Just because someone knows how to behave himself in public does not necessarily mean he is "stuffy" and "boring".
23
Princess Diana was very much in attendance through her sister's reading, her jewels on Meghan's ring, and in the eyes and smiles of her handsome and accomplished sons. I believe she would be proud to see her youngest marry so well.
281
Beautifully stated Greek Goddess. And I completely concur with your words.
10
It was magnificent. I love the message of multiple traditions. Everyone belongs, everywhere. Well done, Meghan and Harry! So refreshing.
57
Finally!
A news day in the USA papers without the moron-in-chief or a killing spree taking the first page!
65
Unfortunately, I think you're wrong about the "killing spree" (don't like phrase).
5
Actually, the Times is very focused on giving the Texas school shooter as much publicity as his dark soul could desire. Those stories, not the wedding, take up most of the room at the top of the home page. Some other newspapers are being more circumspect, which I believe is wise.
(Sorry to get so dark, but since the topic was broached here...)
2
Of course -- the elegance of Givenchy.
Exquisite taste, channeling Jackie and Grace.
28
What has Prince Harry achieved in his previous life that could justify the pomp and the taxpayers' expenses for his wedding?
8
Bringing in half a billion dollars in revenue to Britain. As someone pointed out in a podcast I follow the royal family is Britain’s PR firm. You can’t complain about the joy of this wedding costing money when Trump is golfing on the tax payers dollar, having a tantrum over a wall, and landing a useless military parade.
4
"What has Prince Harry achieved in his previous life that could justify the pomp and the taxpayers' expenses for his wedding?"
Unlike American "royalty," both Harry and William served in the armed forces.
The last time rich young American men went into the army and navy was during World War II, when the Roosevelts, George H.W. Bush, and legions of Yale, Princeton, Harvard boys, and the like, signed up and served gallantly.
So, by the way, did most of our Hollywood "royalty" in those days.
Don't worry. We Americans spend a lot of money giving our wealthiest enormous tax breaks and pay for all of their over-the-top weddings.
9
The money that comes in doesn't go to ordinary working people, but to entrepreneurs.
Please attribute the “fire” and “passion” of Reverend Curry’s words to their original source: the beautiful passage beginning “Set me as a seal upon your heart” is from the Bible, Song of Solomon 8:6-14.
26
A bit of overkill with the coverage of Victoria Beckham.
6
But that is about all the morning show tv girls doing commentary for the American networks know about and can talk about -- the Beckhams, the Clooneys, Oprah and Serena.
Didn't watch the wedding. (I just turned the tv on.) Looks like a picture perfect day weatherwise. What a lovely couple! Love the dress! I'm switching over to the Tennis Channel to watch another "royal." Rafael Nadal - The King of Clay. Vamos Rafa!!!
5
From elsewhere in today's edition: A"tip" for Meghan marrying a Britain is NEVER eat the Marmite!
7
Stand by me and Love! Brilliant!
12
I've been wondering why many TV stations and newspapers (not The Times) that say they don't have the money for their news people to cover city halls or state governments where things important to the lives of Americans are occurring yet seem to have plenty of money to cover tripe like this that is of absolutely no importance to anyone here.
And if we care so much about the British, why don't those media outlets spend the money comparing the British healthcare system to our own. I bet most Americans still have no idea that when you go to a hospital or see a physician in Britain, you aren't going to be charged a dollar or, perhaps I should say, a pound.
24
Because Americans are obsessed with this stuff and gossiping about it. I also assume that is why NBC showed commercials during the bits of the service that involved classical music or other 'dull stuff."
2
I’m so glad we don’t all have to live in your joyless world.
1
Switching channels was fun. BBC = staid, Canadian = less formal, USAs = bouncy and informal. Most hilarious comment made by ABC's lady who said the American preacher "lost me" when he went on and on about fire.
10
There is probably a direct correlation between your observation and the educational systems of the three countries mentioned.
6
If you have HBO, check out what they did on HBO Now. They had a couple of Saturday Night Live alums satirizing the media coverage of the event. I recorded it to watch later on when my husband gets home.
As usual CNN was overly talky. Do we really need all that? The Guardian and WaPo had streaming without all the commenting.
2
Hate to admit, but...
> US Suits - good
> British Suits - better
...though could get into a Row to resolve - as civil or savage as you will
Stiff upper lips put in their rightful place - box seats...
Once again, sun never sets on the British Royalty...
Will replay the sermon tomorrow - it being Sunday...
Already Sunday in the Commonwealth...
7
The British royal family is a potent and enduring symbol of empire and inequality. Despite being enriched by centuries of imperial plunder and mass murder in Africa and Asia, the Windsors won't even pay for own 'family' weddings! That $40 million bill is paid for by the British tax payers. The addition of Ms. Markle to this group of rich parasites won't change any of the equations on which their ill-gotten gains are based. The Times' endless, uncritical and downright fawning coverage is, to put it mildly, disappointing.
13
The article attributes this quote to the Bishop at Harry and Meghan's wedding:
“Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm, for love is as strong as death; passion as fierce as the grave. It’s flashes of fire, of raging flame. Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it out.” — Bishop Michael Curry.
He was quoting a passage of scripture (from Song of Solomon), which should have been noted since he is not the author of the quote.
19
I believe he did.
In my household we are of French and Irish descent. The French executed their Bourbon king in 1790, the Irish fought a civil war in the 1920s to expel the hated English from their island after 800 years. Why on earth would I care about this alliance or waste my time watching it? London is an ugly, overpriced place that I can probably avoid for the remaining time I am alive and will gladly do so if it means not tithing to these truly satanic majesties.
6
Fine by us then
4
This is a special day for two nice people who have both tried to do some good in the world.
Anyone posting snark or venom might want to think about the fact that this is the kind of behavior that Trump and his supporters regularly engage in.
Is that really who you want to be?
63
Lots of Trumpists are watching no doubt, they eat this stuff up from Trump.
Who would have thought that the British royals would give us a master class in diversity?
390
sujatha shenoy…..not sure what to make of your comment. I guess that the royal family is stuffy. or that the usa is the only diverse country in the world? it isn't; not even close.
I didn't watch it but saw a few highlights.
I agree wth the first nyt pick by Elliott Jacobson.
too many American 'preachers' seem to make it about themselves.
finally, I doubt this wedding will make much difference about anything. if harry was first in line, I guess it could, but he's too far down the line.
3
"the Brits" didn't give it: Markle (and I'm sure Harry as well) decided on the choice of sermon-givers and singers and the cellist....
Aside from the sister who did a reading,I didn't notice any of DIana's Spencer family there -- notably her brother, now Earl Spencer, and his children. Were they there or not? The pre-ceremony coverage seemed to focus on identifying and gabbing about "celebrities" ( the Clooneys, the Beckhams i & Serena Williams, endlessly), so maybe they were there but I missed them.
Also, did all American networks follow NBC and replace parts of ceremony (I guess what they considered the "boring" parts -- like some of the most heavenly music on earth) with commercials?
5
Earl Spencer was at the wedding. You should have watched on BBC America which carried the BBC feed so there was no mooning about celebs -- they got a mention that was it and the lovely music was heard in its entirety and there were no babblers talking over the video coverage. Plus -- the interviewees (all were completed before the ceremony began) were representatives from the charities to which Harry and Meghan had suggested donations rather than personal gifts to them.
The BBC covers these events better than the American networks.
9
Question 1: All of the Spencer immediate family was invited. I did notice the Earl but wouldn’t recognize Diana’s sister Sarah and all of their progeny without captions of some sort. Question 2: I watched the wedding on the affiliate of NBC here, and there were no commercials.
1
Yes, the brother, Earl Spencer, was there.
1
Some People in the USA are despiteful of the British royals in particular. Although continuously referring to some prominent families as American royalty, some actors and actresses as royalty.
2
Kudos to the bride and groom and their message of love and inclusion! Hope you heard it, Donald!
22
I was surprised to see the wedding at 7 AM - I thought it was starting at 4 AM. So I got my tea, and then proceeded to blubber almost all the way through.
Love is the answer. The Reverend giving a sermon that I doubt the Queen has ever heard in her church, said it right. Harry and Meghan obviously adore each other. Let's hope their love creates more love for all of us who abide in this world. They do many good things for people who need help and this platform of royalty will enhance their endeavors.
But I really did surprise myself by the tears. May we all give and receive love.
287
I cried too. It was lovely.
10
I'm sure the Queen has heard that quote from the Bible before...."Set me as a seal upon your heart..." Songs of Solomon.
2
I cried too.
2
Ironic isn’t it that as reflected by this wedding the very traditional British are moving forward socially and politically while we in the US are moving backwards embracing racial and political attitudes of the 1939s.
107
There's quite a bit of racism and some violence (knife attacks) going on in England, too, unfortunately.
I am a fan of the BBC News Service.
1
Please compare the headlines in the American papers today to those in the UK, and consider that something may be seriously wrong with us.
30
The highlight for me was the African American choir singing Stand By Me
Uplifting, emotional, glorious, American!
23
The Kingdom Gospel Choir is based in the Southeast of England; they've been singing together for 20 years.
14
Agree. Blew me away.
1
They're terrific!
1
All the best to this couple. It was as lovely and "intimate" a ceremony as one can expect of the British monarchy. Cheers to Harry for insisting on many of those details to make it theirs and less ours. There is obvious love and respect in their eyes for each other.
16
I think Harry made his mother proud today-
congratulations to this happy couple!
24
A spectacle. The Brits do ceremony so well. Lots of fun and nice symbolism. As for the detractors of the Bishop's emotional paean to love - he captured the essence of Christianity. Anyone who does not understand that does not understand the message of Jesus.
22
It should be fairly obvious that Markle is to England, what Obama was to the US: the first African to be "elected" into the Anglo ruling class. She is like him in many ways, in fact almost a female duplicate: attractive, educated, charming, and of mixed race heritage (which makes their acceptance more palatable to other races, or as Joe Biden put it so eloquently, from CNN: "I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy," Biden said. "I mean, that's a storybook, man"). Indeed. This event today had much planning, positioning, messaging and symbolism. Harry is also the ideal candidate for the role: not too calculating and eager to please. Cheers. BTW, it is interesting how violently resistant the Queen was to Diana's planned mixed marriage to Dodi Fayed. Evidently some mixes are more acceptable than others.
3
There is no evidence of a "planned" marriage to Dodi Fayad nor evidence that the Queen had any comments about that relationship.
Harry is now sixth in line to the throne, Diana had been married to the heir apparent and was the mother of Charles' heir -- very different circumstances surrounding Diana than those surrounding Meghan Markle.
7
A true gathering of humanity, love and joy. And, Donald Trump.... more people around the globe watched this wedding than your inauguration.... may be you watched it and learnt something about the true love without any boundaries.
43
from your mouth to God's ears!
3
or not...
For those proclaiming a "new day" based upon this union, how long ago was it we heard similar proclamations upon the election of Barack Obama?
Sustained and concerted action, not transient symbols, are essential to lasting change.
The election of Donald Trump and the Brexit vote are but the most recent examples of the power of White Nationalist propaganda to deceive and defraud an uneducated and gullible proletariat for the benefit of the bourgeoisie.
11
The bride and groom seem like decent enough people and I certainly wish them well but - really - this "Royal" business is just ridiculous. Wealth beyond measure, no political power, titles/names have zero meaning other than what we give them.
I just don't understand why we are supposed to care? Why is this a big deal? What relevance does this royal family have in the world?
10
My father, who wore a uniform all his life, asked those same questions about fashion. If you don't "get it", you just don't.
2
Kelly:
And there isn't "wealth beyond measure" in the United States?
5
It is tradition and culture and heritage. it's a way for the modern world to reach back more than a thousand years and find a unifying theme to stabilise us through fractious times. The symbolism is far far more valuable than the dollar value of the diamonds in a crown.
As Donald Trump does his best to smash the Western alliance it's nice to know there are a few things he can't ruin. This marriage for instance links the two countries in a way that people here value, and perhaps on your side of the pond too. As well as that, it has a good effect on race relations.
16
Lovely...so many little girls' dreams..to marry a prince. How complex life is. It was only yesterday that we Americans cried tears of grief (and still do) over the loss of of our young at the hands of the unstable, perhaps insane, pulling the trigger of a gun. Today our tears are joyful for again one of our own who is beginning a storybook life hopefully with lasting love. I wish this beautiful couple the best. But it is with a heavy heart I think, Why are too many of America's youth denied such a future of promise, hope, and fulfillment?
12
Beautiful Wedding!
Bishop Michael Curry delivered excellent message about Love!
Choir performed Ben E. King's song 'Stand By Me' perfectly!
16
A bright spot on a world of horror.
25
The American minister was WAY OVER THE TOP! I nearly changed the channel. He made it all about himself. I was embarrassed, but Harry and Meghan graciously smiled throughout his “performance.”
15 minutes. . .over.
24
I heard love and inclusion. We all listen through different ears...hear what we want to hear.
3
The minister made it all about himself? Seriously -- that was your take away? The man spoke about the power of love and that love is the answer to all of the problems we face as human beings. He quoted from the Bible, Martin Luther King Jr., a Jesuit priest, and he emphasized the life of Christ and the fact that He gave his life because He loved the world. How did you miss that message????
3
Clearly, you haven't been to church much in America, and never in a black one. He was squarely in a particular homiletic tradition (look it up if you don't know that word) and masterful today. Do you find excellence in craft shameful?
1
It must be so nice to have people you can feel proud of be the public faces of your nation. It seems like its been forever since American's could feel that way.
19
Be proud of Meghan, she seems delightful, and we are happy to share her with you!
I believe that hundreds of years of royal tradition have been insulted during this wedding. This was clearly not a British wedding, which it should have been.
6
It was what the couple wanted it to be. As my wedding was what my husband and I chose it to be. Hence, their wedding was exactly as it should have been.
22
Perhaps it was not an English wedding, but it was a British wedding.
2
Yes, it's so wonderful to watch the rich and privileged do what ordinary folk do: get dressed up and get married. So strange, the monarchy in a democratic state. So strange, too, that everything seems stuck in time: medieval costumes, ancient buildings and music, the whole ceremony, the white dress,
And then there is the veil.
3
America's old Mum, England, put on a magnificent wedding for Prince Harry and his American bride, Meghan Markle this morning. We, on this side of the pond, were riveted by the exquisite mix of Brit tradition and Yankee know-how in the awe-inspiring setting of Windsor Chapel. We could not ask for more wonder-full real media coverage of this seminal wedding. Seeing the faces of the bride and groom and the guests in close-ups, and the immense roaring crowds lining the avenues to Windsor was a gift to the entire world. If only love were all! We who loved Princess Diana, Britain's Queen of Hearts, felt her presence in her sons and grandchildren. In their faces, as well. The celebration of female strength (in Diana, in her new American daughter-in-law, Meghan Markle) was awesome. In the unforgettable ceremony - the perfect show only Queen Elizabeth II's royal "Office" can put on - including the R&B Fave, "Stand By Me", and the Bishop of the U.S. Episcopal Church exhorting us all in the amen corner to "LOVE!", we rejoiced at how cool Britain is, and how uncool America is today. A sweet grace note - listening to "My Country 'Tis of Thee" sung by all assembled (except Her Majesty, Her Royal Highness) as the British "God Save The Queen" anthem at the end of the ceremony!
12
That's lovely, thank you Nan!
The sooner the category of "Royalty" is abolished to the dustbin of history, the better for humanity. The wealthiest 10 people in the world have as much wealth as the bottom half of 3.5 billion humans. That the country of Britain pays millions of dollars for the Royals lifestyle is beyond obscene. Enough already.
6
We don't actually pay "millions of dollars for the Royals' lifestyle." For one thing, they work for their living -- almost every day of the year they are engaged in public duties, at home or overseas. They do a huge amount of work for charity and good causes. Second, they pay taxes themselves. Third, and most important, they generate a huge amount of tourist revenue. I bet that 99% of our very-welcome American guests have Buckingham Palace or Windsor high on their to-do list. If there were no Royals, how much would UK tourism be affected? I don't know, but I suspect you could knock 20 0r 30% off at least.
94
So your tiresome point is about money?
This line struck me as an odd slap-down: "Serena Williams was spotted there too".
Umm. It looked to me like she was seated in the Quire, opposite the royal family, in the sort of seat that's reserved for the family and closest friends of the bride. "Spotted"? Please!
8
Saying this as a British/Canadian American, the US would have been better if it hadn't been independent. Look at Canada and Australia today, for example. Peaceful and orderly countries. The US is a corrupt mess, mostly because of right-wing brainwashing. Right-wing Americans, who are very white, should look to their homeland of Europe and follow their model for universal healthcare, strict gun control, campaign finance, etc.
16
For starters, England prohibited slavery in 1833....and Americans had to fight a civil war to end it in 1865. The curse of slavery and the resulting hatred of both slavery and of the enslaved has marked us to this day. Today we are still fighting that same Civil War and we're armed to the teeth.
5
The English brought almost all the slaves to America. Shortly after the American revolution, the English practice of importing slaves was banned. The riches of the British Royal Family was built on the slave trade. They sing “Britain’s never, never will be slaves” but they had zero problem enslaving others.
3
As someone who reads the news everyday I thought the royal wedding was wonderful and uplifting. The news in this country is a steady diet of shootings, trump running his mouth, and congress critters squabbling. The trump administration and much of this country projects an image of division, discord, and exclusion. The Christians in our country seem to be mad at everyone and don't seem to know what love is.
It was nice to hear a minister talk about love and to hear some good old English hymns, to see the nice flowers, and a crowd of spectators enjoying themselves. People say the British Monarchy is out of date and behind the times but they are the ones who are being inclusive and welcoming of people of different races and religions. They are the ones moving with the times.
Of course the republicans and the professional critics, cranks, and naysayers, will start moaning about how much it cost and things like this do cost a lot. But we have probably wasted $40 million protecting trump when he made a couple of golf trips. There are probably many sports stars who are paid more than that.
All I can say is that it was a pretty sunny day with a lot of people who seem to be enjoying themselves. People singing hymns and a minister talking about love. Isn't that a good thing.
47
How wonderful that a) she's older than him and b) she's not terribly far away from 40. Stars--they're just like us!
8
I believe the wedding ceremony of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, watched by millions and millions of people, did more to counter racism than any other event EVER.
10
Some of the sneering from Americans on this thread is quite amusing - and a lot hypocritical. I'm no fan of the British royal family but, those comments relating to privilege, feudalism, murderous ancestry, entitlement and exploiting the public purse are outrageous for their lack of self-awareness. The British royals may exhibit all of these characteristics but do you really think Americans today don't?
A country led by the social-media version of the entitled and ludicrous "little Lord Fauntleroy" is in no position to sneer at any other. And for those who think that at least it's establishment is not funded out of the public purse, think again. The British monarchy may well have emerged out of the era of robber-barons but today those same robber barons are running the US.
And, for what it's worth, today's marriage shows that social mobility in the UK is still very much alive and well. Can the same be said today for America?
27
When our "royalty" is limited to the Kardashians and their ilk, and our President is an uneducated, dishonorable, con-artist, we Americans have nothing to sneer at but ourselves.
9
This beautiful wedding is nonetheless a transactional event on the international stage. The United States's current government has battered the State Department and is toying with many of the relationships we have enjoyed with other nations for decades, despite the imbalances that every long-standing relationship endures. I believe that The Duchess of Sussex has brought incredible prestige to the US on the international stage with her class, intelligence, beauty, and humor at a time our standing has been tarnished by the hostility, impatience, and selfishness of many of our leaders. Also, one can't go wrong wearing Givenchy.
13
The African American Preacher as the newlyweds choice was courageous. If anything can teach us a lesson, it was his sermon. There was some squirming to be sure, but respect is a two-way street, and we should all respect each other's traditions. We might just learn to understand one another a little better. The understanding that love is the way forward despite past mistreatment is powerful and central to the teachings of Jesus.
13
Beautiful. Loved it. A great day for the Royals!
9
It was extremely classy of Prince Charles to walk Meghan Markle down the aisle.
310
Prince Charles really came thru today. I suspect that he has learned a lot since his own wedding; a callow young man marrying for his job rather than for love. I think that his second marriage may have prepared him for his role today.
And the Queen has grown and matured in wondrous ways.
4
And pointedly to go out of his way to accompany the mother of the bride out of the church.
4
It was also extremely classy of him to look after Meghan's mother. He did himself proud.
3
Bishop Curry's wedding address was wonderful -- with its focus on love, in all its forms. It tied together American and British themes (he is an Anglican, after all) and it did not sidestep the American history of enslavement. It was very refreshing in this time of historical and cultural amnesia. Great work, Bishop Curry.
15
From what I can tell, today's ceremony made alot of people feel good around the world. That is a good thing. All the other details are secondary.
70
It has been such a delight to watch Harry mature into the new husband we see today. He went from a mischievous child to a grieving adolescent to a young man who fell into some of the excesses that young males do fall into - and then he steadied himself, became an advocate for important causes like AIDS, spoke candidly about his emotional struggles, dedicated himself to being a good face for his country, and, finally, committed himself to this smart, independent, advocate named Meghan. Today is the culmination of a fascinating, if difficult, life.
May they enjoy all the happiness in the world together.
106
Thank you, my tears are coming from both eyes.
12
@NM, NY: Have you noticed that some of the august commenters here, whom he we read with delight (normally) have taken a decidedly "right" turn with their rather acid summations of the royal nuptials? I thought a wedding was something from which we could divorce politics for a few short hours simply to revel in the happiness of the newlyweds. Funerals are different: decidedly political, as we shall see shortly. I think you know of whom I am speaking-- and why. But I was rather disappointed and dismayed by some of the words that I read here today. Neither Harry nor his beautiful Meghan embody or are metaphors for the evils of British colonialism of which much (negative) can be said. But cannot this be a day to wish two lovers well? I thought to write this several hours ago after reading your post but thought better (or worse) of it. Now, I think I have to speak out: let not the "perfect" become the enemy of the "normal."
1
Harry like his father and brother was also a fully professional armed forces officer seeing action as an Apache helicopter pilot in Afghanistan and rated as the pilot with the most accurate aim. Harry is a graduate of the Royal Military College Sandhurst.
Gorgeous day, stunning pageantry as the current empty-headed cast adds another actor to their rolls/roles. And so symbolic to have it at Windsor Castle: nice house, no one home, not a single thought to diminish that perfect, charming smile. (Would have been nice to see the Queen smile too, but no luck.) I loved watching every minute, in awe of the ancient ramparts, and reminiscing about my own journeys to "Jolly Old." A wonderful escape to marvel at the top designers' creations and the whippet-thin women privileged to port them. However, this day broke very little new ground. Henry VIII, Edward VIII, "Randy Andy", Prince Charles, Camilla, Princesses Fergie and Di - commoners, American divorcees and divorce are royal traditions. As Meghan "third time's the (prince) charm(ing)" assimilates and her exotic appeal diminishes, I hope Harry does not lose interest.
4
One nice thing about being the Queen of England is that, unlike most other women on this planet, you don't have to smile unless you want to.
2
For all the wonderful pomp and circumstance (and no one does it better than the Brits!), in the end, this was a "family wedding" from start to finish. The Royal Family, Prince Charles in particular, went out of their way to be welcoming and warm to Miss Markle's mother. I did feel for her, sitting there all by herself, but in truth, she's the only "real" family that Miss Markle has had. She has now clearly been embraced by the Royal Family but I don't see them ever excluding her mother.
It was a gorgeous dress, the tiara was perfect, the flowers spectacular. The music was lovely but I could have done without "Stand by Me". I would have far preferred to have heard the gospel choir sing a religious song. The young cellist was mesmerizing - what incredible talent.
How lovely to see a huge church full of people appropriately dressed, something one sees so rarely these days. And the beautifully behaved little children who were the attendants - again, one rarely sees well-behaved young children these days.
Altogether, a very lovely wedding.
50
Let those little attendants show the world that indeed it is possible to raise a child to be well-behaved. The youngest was 2.
17
My wife is from a Caribbean country which was under and grew up with the Royal family being part of her culture and history --
As she watched the wedding, she was able to name every single member of the family as they appeared on television - including those who rarely (if ever) receive publicity -- along with comments about the history and their bloodlines - including the rich heritage of black women who became members of he royal family through marriage - such as Queen Sophie, who married George III and had to join the Anglican Church --
It was wonderful for me to hear my wife's commentary because she is educated in the history of the royal family -- and she knew the hymns and sang along -
And yes -- it was a beautiful wedding and we wre both very moved...
54
Howard--It's too bad that the UK is now "cracking down" on Caribbean British citizens, who were invited to come to the UK, many years ago. Evidently, the racism is also pretty bad in the UK. I hope Meghan fares well, and works to change this unfortunate tendency, in her new country. Best wishes!
7
It was a beautiful wedding day, inside and out.
As for the homily, it would have been great to hear what Dr. Martin Luther King would have done with it. I can think of others as well. I know the sound of God's trombones, but I listened for it in vain today.
That's all right. However, what I witnessed instead -- self-absorbed theatrics and programmatic passion -- had me almost sweating with embarrassment by the time it was over. So it wasn't only "the Brits" who were not amused. I'm an American from a part of the South where Bishop Curry used to preach, and I noticed at least one other American face that had gone fairly stiff by the end: Meghan's.
Still, there was a lot to like about the royal wedding.
23
I enjoyed Bishop Curry's message but it would have been better if it had been shorter. Something about ministers -- they don't know when to stop talking.
11
I give a huge and heartfelt hand to both Harry and Meghan for moving the monarchy forward by - leaps and bounds.
They, and they alone deserve so much love and support and future happiness for making their mark on the conscious's of everyone who attended, and viewed from afar, their thoroughly inclusive and widely cultivated modern day wedding ceremony.
God bless them both.
19
Spectacular. Everyone had smiles on their faces. Harry & Meghan looked wonderful. The highlight was the homily by Archbishop Michael Curry.
21
No one does pomp and circumstance quite like the Brits. Bravo to this beautiful couple who are obviously over the moon for each other. Thank you for allowing us a front row seat to this lovely adventure in love and romance and for the needed diversion from the routine daily madness . May God bless you both.
29
Let's also hear it for those adorable wedding train holders and flower girls. They almost stole the show!
5
The snide looks and suppressed laughter among some of the members of the royal family during Reverend Curry's homily are a reminder that this couple will need all the support and strength they can get. I wish that for them and applaud their openness to difference, their grace and the grace and dignity of Doria Ragland.
86
I don't think it was because he was African American specifically. I think it was because the sermon was so long and rambling. It should have been a bit more controlled and to the point. all the talk about the origins of fire etc were way too off on a tangent. Later there was a beautiful reading by a black woman minister, I think she was, and there was no awkwardness about it.
20
I noticed that as well and thought it was rather poor form on their part. Zara Tisdale looked as if she was about to guffaw at one point and even Prince William seemed to have trouble suppressing a smile. I noticed that a couple of audience members in the chapel appeared to find the gospel choir and their rendition of “Stand By Me” amusing, and that choir was British. Apparently Prince Charles helped his son and new daughter-in-law select some of the music that was performed at the ceremony, although I guess snotty behavior among some people dies hard.
But there’s a handful of nincompoops at every wedding, I suppose. I’m sure the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will carry on with dignity though, and Doria Ragland is certainly leading by example.
10
Curry was obviously playing to the global audience. It wasn't even what he said - although it was pretty incoherent (and normal in these circumstances) but his ludicrous over-the-top performance. It was an embarrassing piece of showmanship. A clear hysteric, he took (and misread) his moment when offered.
16
I have always loved the pomp and circumstance of royal weddings, and this one was no exception. It recalls the long history and tradition behind them.
As far as their effect on my own existence goes, the simple wedding of my simple parents, my own wedding and the ones by my two children have more meaning to our own traditions. They recall continuity and have survived the test of time as well. Perhaps no pomp, but a lot of circumstances if you ask me.
9
The wedding gown worn by Princess Markle (I assume she is a princess since she married a prince) is similar to one Grace Kelly wore at her wedding - elegant and understated yet enchanting and beautiful.
A wonderful occasion on a wonderful day in a wonderful city. I hope the happiness this couple feels and shares today will never diminish and will continue to grow deeper and richer with each passing year. I can picture Diana proudly smiling down on her sons, happy with the women they are sharing their lives with.
Sincere congrats to the happy newlyweds.
32
No, not "princess." As is customary, the queen gave the marrying prince a new title. They'll now be known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
4
Small correction as the Duchess of Suxxex will not be called a princess. HRH, yes, not no a princess.
3
"The wedding gown worn by Princess Markle (I assume she is a princess since she married a prince)..."
"Harry and Meghan’s New Titles are Duke and Duchess of Sussex"
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/19/style/-duke-duchess-sussex-meghan-har...
2
That Curry speech was astonishing.
Yay for the Royals. Yay for history righting itself.
Yay for a sweet happy beautiful couple.
74
Mere words cannot properly express how little I care.
53
If it’s come down to only this and mass school shootings, I’ll take this. Look at the bright side, I don’t recall seeing Trump mentioned once in any of the comments here I read this morning.
7
Yet, you took the time to comment about it.
5
Normally I agree with your posts but there's a good chance that as with Bill and Melinda Gates they will have a positive impact on many issues.
So why don't you care - I'd love to know.
1
I actually tried to watch it. It bored me. It’s a commercial for the British tourist industry. So I have to agree with that adage often quoted about the British monarchy: the royal family does absolutely nothing, but they do it so well.
25
I was especially hard to try to watch it on a network like NBC that insisted on replacing parts of the ceremony (the parts evidently someone at NBC deemed "boring" to Americans, including classical music)with commercials.
3
Actually I think that adage is about Parliament and comes from lines in a Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, Iolanthe, "and Parliament throughout the war did nothing in particular and did it very well, yet Britiain won its proudest days in good King George's glorious days....."
5
I live-streamed it on the internet. Beautiful music was the soul of the entire ceremony. Too bad the networks just don't understand that.
9
The flowers were superb!
Just really beautiful.
38
The grim faces of the Brits seemed to indicate that they were less than enthralled with Bishop Curry. Even at the end of the ceremony, Kate and others could not summon a smile.
28
I'd say that is their loss. I don't think the Brits do emotion, particularly when it's connected to religion. Personally, I loved it. I thought Bishop Curry and the gospel choir were terrific, and as a white American, I was pretty damn proud!!
10
Actually, a number of them threw horrified shade, or could barely keep from laughing. It was quite hilarious to see the hidebound so unsettled.
6
I'll have t say I was not enthralled with Bishop Curry either, and I'm an Episcopalian. WHere did they dig him up? They could have replaced his "talk" with a recoding of "Love, Love, Love." A typical (and what I consider off-putting) example of church person trying to "relate" by talking down to people.
12
I could have done without the open carriage. But they were sometimes flanked by men on horseback, which is at least something.
2
How nice to start the weekend with some good news for a change. It's the kind of happy union between America and Britain that we cherish.
179
Just really classy!
94
Rather than play down their differences in nationality, aristocratric birth, and race, Harry and Meghan, signalled to their respective countries and the world the importance of love and unity, during this era of deep division and animosity towards "others" manifested by Brexit and Trumpism. They did it in royal style.
387
Yes it was simply awesome how they sent some powerful messages. How extraordinary to the the mother-in-law of Prince Harry in neat dread locks. How absolutely incredible when we look at history.
I got weepy when the black gospel choir sang "Stand by Me" and to see that young black cellist - well could not hold back my tears.
We are not all about rap and sports
205
You nailed it. Sometimes these events which might seem fluff have a symbolic value. Trump, you weren't invited, and you certainly didn't belong there, not because the President's presence would have overshadowed the couple, but because your politics are antithetical to what the wedding signified: unity in diversity (ex pluribus unum, the USA motto you, Trump, don't seem to understand).
26
No, were aren't all about rap and sports. Maybe, just maybe "we" need to cease hand-wring about how others would like define black people..
2
Well at least we don't have to go through this for at another twenty-years until the next pups are old enough. How much coverage can we anticipate when the Queen dies and they crown a king? These weddings are going to look like peanuts.
6
This "royal" nonsense went out in the 16th century. How anyone can be enamored by "carriages" and "thrones" and "princes" and "princesses" is beyond me. Good grief, what exactly is it that they do?
2
What do they do? A huge amount of charitable work, for a start. Most of the leading royals each have public duties on between 250 and 300 days a year. They are not beyond criticism (nor are you or me), but remember that for most of these guys, they didn't have any choice in the sort of life they are asked to lead.
11
Well, apparently they're doing something more than our current Congress or they would have been out of business by now.
7
Well done Prince Harry, your mum will be proud!! Best wishes!!
176
I feel sorry for people who get up late on Saturdays. I'm not usually one for royal weddings, but that was absolutely beautiful. Wonderful couple, you can see the love they have for each other. The American bishop woke the crowd up, the cellist was outstanding. I wish them all the best.
164
I grew up in Canada and half my family is of British origin. In my youth Queen Elizabeth was looked upon as a figurehead of decorum and dignity, the anchor in an increasingly eccentric cast. But really, isn't that how people have always been?
The Queen still has my admiration. Now in her 90's, she has been true to herself and her ancestors while embracing and learning from the changes in our world.
130
And in attending tens of thousands of hours of ceremonies and functions the Queen has never had to take a bathroom break.
1
Beautiful day, wonderful occasion. Harry and Meghan looked radiant.
86
I had a choice early this morning when I clicked on the Times website: read about the horrific Santa Fe shooting or watch the livestream of the royal wedding. Though I have little interest in the monarchy, I chose the latter.
I’m glad I did. For one hour, I had a smile on my face.
392
I chose the former. Reality is often a bummer but had I watched Americans who are alleged to be serious news-correspondents making a fuss over the marriage of a man who will never be a king and a woman who will never be an A-list actress the smile that would have appeared on my face would have plainly resembled a smirk.
3
$40 million in public money for a wedding. I'm sure Trump is taking mental notes for his own upcoming public extravaganzas.
27
The royal family is probably the number one draw for tourism to the UK ... aside from the feel good story of true love and happiness for those with open hearts (which comes after quite a lot of loss and sadness), I imagine the monies spent get a pretty solid ROI. No doubt there are committed anglophiles being born this very morning.
Trump, not so much.
61
I am under the impression that the Queen paid for the wedding out of her own pocket, unlike the martial extravaganza Trump is planning (so he can keep up with the French). That is being paid for by...us.
13
Ravenna, the Queen paid for the $2 million wedding (but from where does her income derive?); tax payers paid for the $32 million security.
1
This just seems like an idiotic spectacle.
28
Sadly, many of us in the UK thought the same about Donald Trump's inauguration as President.
33
@Phil: a majority of Americans felt the same way.
11
As usual, deftly changing the subject.
1
An African American preacher giving a sermon with a Benny King song in the background at a British royal wedding is next to as momentous as Mr. Obama's election.
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As a Brit, I found the insertion of a histrionic preacher who clearly thought the whole thing was about him and his peculiar idea of what is appropriate for a British royal wedding, bizarre to say the least. As regards Obama's election, how did that work out for you? Oh yes, you got The Donald as an antidote.
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David, It was not merely a British royal wedding, it was a Markle family wedding. You would do yourself a favor by not being so insular. (Disclosure: I did not wake myself up to watch it.)
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Bah humbug! If you had listened and heard you would not have come to that conclusion. Bishop Curry did not once extol himself, but quoted and gave deference to others.
His was a powerful message, made more so by being delivered in a traditional chapel to a stuffy British audience including the stoney faced Royals who really can be rather rude and uncivil once out of their comfort zones. I hope it woke the whole place up because it made the ceremony more relevant.
A preachers job is to preach and he did it admirably so for me Bishop Michael walks on water
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I sincerely hope the demands of a classist British society don't crush MM's spirit, look at how merciless they were to Fergie who didn't have the added burden of being American and biracial. Seems like she's entering a gilded cage, leaving California for a small island that has signaled to the world that they want to take an insular position-- not absolutely sure if a wedding to the Windsors is really trading up or not. Hope she can make it work.
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We Brits think that our royal family is 'trading down' to use your expression. Harry os this generation's odd man out, but has had his way because he is not in line for the throne. Thank God.
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Fergie was light-weight commoner with no class or good judgement; she brought her own downfall on herself, all by her own efforts.
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Look what they did to Diana, and she was considered the perfect choice by the royals. Imagine finding out on your wedding day that your Prince really loves his old girlfriend, Camilla? All downhill from there EXCEPT for the boys who were her joy. As long as Harry and Megan love, support, PROTECT, and RESPECT each other, they will be fine.
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I am stunned that in 2018 we are bewitched onlookers, enthralled by the lives of others because of who their mommy and daddy are.
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Then just don’t look! There’s always the option!
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Honestly, it was such a needed diversion...
I have never been terribly interested in the royals, but this wedding has been captivating, if only to give me something sweet and beautiful to focus on.
But now it’s over, so it’s back to the awfulness of Trump, the awfulness of our gun violence epidemic... :(
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You're missing the symbolism by a country mile, Robert. We can't live without myths and images.
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Diana must be smiling!!! Wish happiness to the young couple.
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Truly been down on my country, America since the arrival of Trump. But watching clips of this ceremony, and realizing the monies that went into this ceremony, i feel better about a country, whose forefathers, rid our governance of such a waste of time and money.
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Oh yes except for Pruitt & his "security" details.
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@ACJ
LOL. How many millions does the U.S. spend each week on transportation and security for Trump to attend his weekly golf outings at Mar-A-Lago? Talk about a waste of money. At least the wedding is a happy event.
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And Ben Carson’s $35,000 dining table.
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Meghan made her mark.
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What mark??? Did she find she find the cure for cancer?
3
Did you watch the wedding?
In addition to centuries of English tradition, the ceremony reflected aspects of Meghan’s culture and identity.. Many firsts for a royal wedding which may set the tone for future public & press acceptance.
And that’s how Meghan made her mark.
1
There is no doubt or debate needed; the Brits own pomp and ceremony.
How heartwarming to see that young little boy grow up to see such happiness
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The generous spirit that this marriage showed between man and woman, black and white was forever memorables, so sad for those who could not take the time to watch this truly magnificent union b'tween man and woman, man and man, black and white!
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Also, her gown was stunning!
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Wasn’t it, though? It was a relief to see something that wasn’t strapless or similar to any of the frilled, over-the-top, “blinged”, and occasionally see-through disasters that fill some modern bridal salons and populate such shows as “Say Yes to the Dress”. Nor was it even, might I add, in the vein of the late Princess Diana's dress, a monstrous ensemble of 80’s overkill that very nearly required its own coach to get to the wedding. The Duchess of Sussex’s dress choice reminded me of something that Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, were she a young bride living today, might have selected for her wedding. It was simply lovely and elegant, and will stand the test of time.
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Prince Harry is luck to have Princess Meghan on his side. She has the beauty, kindness and charm of her mother on her face.
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What a wonderful break from all the rot that consumes the US.
Congrats to the newlyweds and thanks to the Brits for reminding all the world that love, hope, and civility remain.
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This IS an exercise in delicious irony isn't it?
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Poignant RMW!
I loved the combination of musical styles.
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Incredible 19 year old cellist
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What is his name?
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I enjoyed watching the cellist as much as I enjoyed listening. I did it with one eye closed and the other glued to his every movement. I liked Stand By Me too. As long as they stand by each other . . . Shucks, they'll be just fine.
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Isn’t feudalism grand ?!
Oh joy !
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Love the gators in the moat!
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No one's forcing you to move there. The monarchy have the support of the vast majority of the British people. Chill out and enjoy the romance. Oh, and btw, the wedding's getting a return of about 5 or 6 quid in tourist revenue for every one spent.
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Socrates,
Two people are in love. Do you have to be so sarcastic, negative, and really, inappropriate today about these two? Save all that for Donald Trump, et al, that are derserving. Not Harry and Meghan! Geish!
MIMA
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How beautiful!
What a great service. I didn't expect it to be so emotional and such a proclamation about her racial identity. Great job by Megan. She was stunning, so radiant. It was touching that she and Harry appear to be so close. Also lovely was Megan's mother, so visibly moved by seeing her daughter there.
A fine day.
Change has come to the House of Windsor.
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I am old enough to remember when Princess Margaret was denied marriage to the love of her life, Group Captain Peter Townsend, because he was *shock* divorced. Change has come indeed.
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You realize the "Windsor" is a made-up name by the family who was eager to dump the name "Mountbatten" during World War 2 ?? True story !
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Thank you for your efforts, NYT reporters. It was a delight to wake up extra early with my husband to watch the ceremony. We have to remember that although the negatives are part of life, so are positives of the world. And I for one am glad there were very little or none political figures there. With so much scandal and turmoil that erupts more frequently, I was afraid it would overshadow observing the love Harry and Megan obviously have for each other!
Love! Listen to Archbishop Michael Curry's homily again if you will. This was also a historic day in the name for race regarding Meaghan's background and past history and now her new title as Royal Highness. Michael Curry could not have been a better choice to preach the homily.
Have a good weekend, everybody.
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I don't like being preached to. I cannot imagine anyone does. The archbishop was the one downside of the event.
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In your opinion.
What a beautiful wedding! The new Duchess of Sussex looked stunning, her dress simple and elegant; Prince Harry looked handsome; and Ms. Ragland, the mother of the bride, looked elegant as well. It was good to step outside the division and sadness which is taking over our nation and lose oneself, if only for an hour, in a beautiful ceremony uniting two intelligent, happy young people obviously in love. The Kim Kardashian-Kanye West wedding this definitely was not.
As an American, I’m pleased that Ms. Markle and her mother are representing us so well on the international stage. Both appear gracious and have conducted themselves thus far with dignity, decorum, and thoughtfulness. In this era of crassness and stupidity brought to us by Trump and reveled in by the lowest common denominators of our society, it is a balm to be able to show the world that not all Americans are classless and moronic. While I’m sorry that we will essentially be exporting a bit of American class and dignity to Great Britain - Lord knows we need it here - if we have to export it at all, I’m glad Ms. Markle is its standard bearer.
Best wishes to the newly-married couple. May their union be long and happy.
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I'm glad I got up to watch it. I didn't know if I would, if I cared, but over the chattering of news anchors filling time, something truly amazing and universal emerged. It felt like we were a larger family--reminded of all the people who have made this leap of faith, all it means to love someone till death. All those faces and the strange, sad ironies...it didn't work so well for Charles, for Daria, for Camilla, for Andrew...but they were there, affirming their affection and hope for the future of this couple. Seeing Queen Elizabeth's smile in little Charlotte, seeing Diana in Harry...I was so moved, thinking of Harry following his mother's casket, the "Dear Mummy" card and roses on it. LIke Harry, I was very young when my mother died, and I felt such sadness for what was ahead for her boys. It is such a tribute to her that he finally emerged from that terrible cloud with a sense of purpose, and that he has found such an extraordinary partner. God bless them!
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Very well stated comment Lindsey. My thoughts exactly as you wrote.
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I feel that Prince William has Diana's looks....and Prince Harry? A young Henry VIII, but with his mother's warm temperament.
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Brilliant coverage of the royal wedding
Englishman lost in New York
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Very soulful for a British royal wedding. Amen!
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And hallelujah!
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The music has been incredible including this wonderful cellist and the chorus singing Stand By Me. Fresh take on that.
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@JayWhy, NYC: I was also stunned to hear the great Ben E. King standard done with an a cappella chorus. A time-honored (1961) and revered American R&B standard to grace a royal wedding. Truly amazing!
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Everything about this wedding for me can be summed up in a live interview I saw of a native Londoner of African descent whom the white interviewer naively assumed would be supportive of the marriage.
She bluntly said that the lives of her neighbors in London were miserable before the union and will continue to be miserable after the union.
Meghan Markle will live in luxury, she said, while we will continue to live in squalor.
Never turn around to see the frowns of the juggler and the clowns when they all do tricks for you.
Be entertained, if you will, by this transient diversion amid a world of pain, poverty, and neglect.
“The early Christians rejoiced when they were deemed worthy to suffer for what they believed," wrote Martin Luther King, Jr., from a Birmingham jail, "In those days the Church was not merely a thermometer that recorded the ideas and principles of popular opinion; it was a thermostat that transformed the mores of society."
For those of you who watched this "royal" wedding from your comfortable sofas or beds and thought, "How nice," think about that instead.
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You can wait until the world is perfect before you experience a bit of joy.
I myself am having a great morning checking out all the wild hats, the fabulous vintage Rolls Royces, a live visit to a royal museum, all the celebrities! The fabulous costumes and uniforms, the hearses, the Queen still walking sans cane. And I know the daily horrors in today’s world, but it ain’t stopping me from grinning ear to ear that the Royal Family my have just inherited a second Diana.
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We can, in fact, think about both things.
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@Didier
Or those of us watching it on our feet on shift at the hospital. But let me run and get my hair shirt while I flog myself.
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What a joy on this rainy Saturday to read about happiness and celebration - such a relief from the unrelenting headlines of grief and despair. May they have a long and happy life together.
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Just loved the sermon of FIRE and LOVE from the American Bapitist peacher! The whole of England has never heard such passion before spoken at any Royal Wedding.
The truly ROYAL Diana is the REAL Jewel missing this day. One can't help but think of her in this moment. She was passion and love and humanity in her life.
I miss her now. I know that I'm not alone. I wish them luck and true love with humane and great deeds for the world. Love is the greatest force and power in this world! The journey to real love is the most exciting one on earth!
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Indeed very fiery! He’s amazing!
Bp. Curry is not baptist, however. He’s the presiding bishop of the *episcopal* church in the US.
:)
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The preacher is the head of the Episcopal Church in the US, part of the Anglican Communion, definitely not Baptist.
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For the record, Rev. Curry is Episcopalian, not Baptist.
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A lovely ceremony. May God bless them both.
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In September, 1997, we had tears of sadness for Harry, the little boy who walked along, sad, losing the woman of his life, his beloved mother, Diana.
He was blessed today, May 19, 2018. We were able to see him join Meghan, a love of his life today. She will stand by him, walk with him, prevent him from ever feeling that 1997 loneliness again.
Today, we have tears of happiness for Harry. May Harry and Meghan always enjoy their lives together. Rejoice! Love prevails!
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Beautiful! Loved every minute of it.
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