Kate Middleton has been confirmed into the Church of England during a private ceremony at St James’s Palace conducted by the Bishop of London.
Sources close to 29-year-old Miss Middleton told reporters that the step is not a constitutional nicety, but rather it was a decision she took as part of a “personal journey” into the faith.
It is understood that the confirmation ceremony took place on 10 March close to Prince William’s private offices.
Decision
A St James’s Palace spokesman said: “Catherine Middleton was confirmed by the Bishop of London at a private service at St James’s Palace attended by her family and Prince William.
“Miss Middleton, who was already baptised, decided to be confirmed as part of her marriage preparations.”
According to reports, she received guidance and counselling from the Bishop of London, the Rt Revd Richard Chartres, before making a personal decision to be confirmed.
Strengthen
The bishop will give the address at the royal couple’s marriage ceremony at Westminster Abbey on 29 April.
Last week the Church of England released a prayer for the couple. It asks that God would deepen their love and “strengthen their wills to keep the promises they will make”.
While the prayer specifically mentions William and Kate, the Church said its prayer was also for all couples preparing for marriage.
Favour
It asks God to “look in favour on William and Catherine and all who are made one in marriage”.
The full text of the prayer reads: “God of all grace, friend and companion, look in favour on William and Catherine and all who are made one in marriage.
“In your love deepen their love and strengthen their wills to keep the promises they will make, that they may continue in life-long faithfulness to each other; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”