Catherine, Princess of Wales, is widely recognized for her dedicated service to the monarchy, her charitable work, and her growing leadership within the royal family. At the annual Order of the Garter ceremony at Windsor Castle, Catherine once again underscored her evolving role in Britain’s royal tradition by participating in one of its oldest and most prestigious orders.
Founded in 1348 by King Edward III, the Order of the Garter is the oldest and most senior order of chivalry in Britain. It has long been a symbol of honor, service, and continuity within the monarchy.
The Order of the Garter: History and Significance
The Order of the Garter was established nearly 700 years ago and remains one of the highest honors the monarch can bestow. Its membership is limited and includes senior members of the royal family, selected knights and ladies (Companions of the Order), and a small number of foreign monarchs and heads of state honored as Stranger Knights or Ladies.
The order’s motto—“Honi soit qui mal y pense” (Shame on him who thinks evil of it)—reflects its chivalric values. Its annual Garter Day service at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, features ceremonial processions, prayers, and investitures that celebrate the tradition of service to the Crown and the nation.
Sources:
- The Royal Family Official Website: Order of the Garter
- Historic Royal Palaces: The Order of the Garter
Catherine, Princess of Wales: A Senior Royal Role
Catherine, Princess of Wales, became a Lady Companion of the Order of the Garter in 2023, a move widely covered in the UK media and official royal communications. Her investiture marked her formal integration into one of the monarchy’s most prestigious orders, highlighting her position as a senior working royal and her increasing public role.
Her participation in Garter Day ceremonies represents not only tradition but also a visible sign of her standing within the royal family. As a Lady Companion, she joins other senior royals and distinguished individuals in supporting the order’s values of service and loyalty.
Sources:
- BBC News: Order of the Garter Ceremony
- Royal.uk: Order of the Garter Membership
Catherine’s Public Service and Charitable Work
Catherine’s growing role in the Order of the Garter reflects her wider commitment to public service. Since joining the royal family in 2011, she has championed causes ranging from mental health awareness to early childhood development and maternal well-being.
She is the patron of numerous organizations, including:
- The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood
- The National Portrait Gallery
- Action for Children
- East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH)
Her work with The Royal Foundation alongside Prince William has also focused on tackling stigma around mental health, supporting emergency responders, and encouraging community engagement.
Sources:
- Royal.uk: The Princess of Wales
- The Royal Foundation
A Modern Monarchy: Supporting Continuity and Change
The participation of Catherine in the Order of the Garter ceremony symbolizes the royal family’s careful balance between tradition and modern relevance. As the monarchy adapts to a changing society, it places significant value on the dedication of its senior members.
King Charles III has spoken of a desire to slim down and modernize the monarchy, ensuring it remains fit for purpose in the 21st century. Catherine’s active role supports that goal by demonstrating a commitment to service and continuity while bringing a modern approach to royal duties.
Sources:
- BBC News: King Charles III’s Vision for the Monarchy
- The Guardian: Charles’ Modern Monarchy
Garter Day at Windsor Castle
Each June, Garter Day is celebrated at Windsor Castle with great pageantry. Members of the Order, dressed in their distinctive dark blue velvet robes and plumed hats, process through the grounds of the castle to St George’s Chapel. The service includes prayers and readings, and new Companions are formally installed.
Catherine’s participation in these ceremonies showcases her role as a key representative of the royal family. Her involvement emphasizes the continuity of centuries-old traditions while highlighting the monarchy’s ability to evolve with new generations.
In 2024 and 2025, Garter Day has continued to receive strong public and media interest, with Catherine often praised for her poised and elegant presence at the event.
Sources:
- Historic Royal Palaces: The Garter Ceremony
- Royal.uk: Order of the Garter
The Duke of Kent: A Longstanding Role
The Duke of Kent has been a senior member of the Order of the Garter for decades, recognized for his lifetime of service to the Crown. As one of the longest-serving members of the royal family, he has regularly attended Garter Day ceremonies and represented the order at many state occasions.
Although now less active in public life due to age and health considerations, he remains a respected figure whose long service embodies the values of the Order. Reports in the UK press have noted his support for the next generation of royals, including Catherine and Prince William, in taking on greater ceremonial responsibilities.
However, there is no public or official record confirming any formal “handover” of leadership of the Order from the Duke of Kent to Catherine, nor any suggestion that Catherine has become its head. Such claims are not reflected in the official record of the Royal Family.
Sources:
- Royal.uk: The Duke of Kent
- BBC News Coverage of Garter Day
Catherine’s Evolving Role as Princess of Wales
Catherine’s increasing prominence at events like Garter Day fits within her broader role as Princess of Wales. Since taking on the title in 2022, following King Charles III’s accession, she has become one of the most visible and active members of the royal family.
Her responsibilities include representing the monarchy at national and international events, supporting the King and Prince William, and promoting charitable initiatives that reflect royal values of duty, service, and compassion.
Catherine’s approach—combining tradition with modern engagement—has been widely praised in the UK and internationally.
Sources:
- Royal.uk: The Princess of Wales
- BBC News: Charles III Becomes King
Conclusion: Tradition and Modern Service
Catherine, Princess of Wales, continues to strengthen her role within the royal family through dedicated service and meaningful public engagement. Her participation in the Order of the Garter ceremony underscores her commitment to the traditions that define the monarchy while offering a modern, accessible image of royal service.
By championing key social causes, supporting her family, and embracing ceremonial roles like Garter Day, Catherine embodies a monarchy seeking to balance continuity with change—ensuring its relevance for generations to come.