The eyes of the world were on Westminster Abbey on Friday as Prince William of Wales, second in line to the British throne, was married to Catherine Middleton, in a spectacular ceremony we will all long remember. The wedding of the century, some called it, and there was certainly plenty of pomp and pageantry, solemnity and celebration, as the young couple made their vows and were pronounced husband and wife.
Prince William is, of course, likely one day to be King, in which case he will become Australia’s head of state. I have no doubt the royal wedding has revived support for the monarchy in Australia, and poured cold water on republican sentiment.
Of course, beyond all the hype and tradition there are two young people who have come to love and honour one another deeply, and Friday’s wedding was a powerful reminder to us all of the importance of marriage to personal and social wellbeing, a tradition that keeps a community strong, and provides the best foundation for bearing and raising children. We ditch the rules of such a fundamental institution at our peril.
Broadcast on 2CH Sydney, Sunday 1 May 2011.
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