Beaming William and Kate join King and Queen at Windsor Easter Sunday service for first time in three years - after exiled Andrew walks his dogs and Fergie, Beatrice and Eugenie stay away

The royal family gathered for a rare Easter service at Windsor Castle on Sunday, marking the first time in three years that Prince William and Kate Middleton, along with their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, attended the service with King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The event, held at St George's Chapel, was a significant reunion of the extended royal family, which has been largely absent from public appearances since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022.

The Easter service, traditionally attended by the British monarch and close family members, was a notable departure from the solitary celebrations of recent years, when the royal family faced increased scrutiny and public debate over their role in society. The presence of William and Kate, along with their children, signaled a return to a more traditional royal presence, as they joined King Charles and Queen Camilla in a display of unity and continuity.

The absence of other family members, however, highlighted the ongoing tensions within the royal circle. Prince Andrew, who was stripped of his royal titles in 2021 following allegations of sexual abuse, was reportedly seen walking his dogs near Windsor Castle on the same day, but did not attend the service. Similarly, Princess Anne's daughters, Beatrice and Eugenie, and their mother, did not participate in the Easter gathering. This marked the first time in years that the Easter service had not included all members of the extended royal family, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by the monarchy in balancing tradition with modern expectations.

The service itself was a modest affair, with the royal family seated in the chapel's choir stalls. King Charles and Queen Camilla, flanked by Prince William and Kate, their children, and other close relatives, participated in the traditional Easter liturgy. The service, led by the Dean of Windsor, emphasized themes of renewal and hope, reflecting the family's efforts to rebuild and reestablish their public image in the wake of recent controversies.

The inclusion of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis in the service was particularly notable, as it marked their first appearance at such a significant event. The children, dressed in smart attire, appeared eager and attentive, their presence symbolizing the future of the British monarchy. The gathering provided an opportunity for the younger generation to learn about their royal duties and to connect with their extended family, fostering a sense of continuity and tradition.

The Easter service at Windsor Castle served as a reminder of the evolving dynamics within the royal family. While the presence of William and Kate, along with their children, signaled a return to a more visible and inclusive monarchy, the absence of other family members highlighted the challenges faced by the institution in navigating modern expectations and scandals. As the royal family continues to adapt, the Easter gathering offered a glimpse into the delicate balance between tradition and change, as they sought to rebuild and reaffirm their role in British society.