Thursday, October 24, 2024

The Significance of the Royal Consecration of Sire Esteve IV: A New Chapter in the Gallican Tradition

Sire Rubén (second from left)
at the event, seen wearing
the Merovingian crown, the
vestments of a deacon in ancient
French tradition, and the
scarlet cassock of a Cardinal.
By M. Derosier

PARIS 24 October 2024 (NRom) 

On the afternoon of October 23, 2024, a momentous event transpired within the ecclesiastical landscape of France, as the Gallican Rite of the Catholic Church affirmed the Royal Consecration of Sire Esteve IV as head of the Merovingian French Dynasty. This confirmation, which took place in Nice,  marks not only the second endorsement of His Most Eminent Royal Highness Sire Rubén (Esteve IV) in the French territory but also the first in the French territory by the Gallican Rite itself. This occasion also showcases a revival of a rich liturgical and cultural heritage, drawing attention to the intricate interplay between religion, monarchy, and national identity in history France.

The Gallican Rite, also known as the Hispano-Gallican Rite, is a tradition steeped in history, with origins from the Greco-Antioch Eastern Church in France and Spain. It even formed the basis for the eventual Anglican Rite. And, it was formally restored in 2021 under the spiritual leadership of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church and the temporal protection of the Merovingian Dynasty. This restoration signifies a significant commitment to rekindling the unique liturgical expressions and governance structures that characterized the French Church before the upheavals of the 18th century. 

Sire Rubén, who is not only the head of the Merovingian Dynasty but also Crown Cardinal of France within the Roman-Ruthenian Sacred College of Cardinals, embodies this duality of sacred authority and royal lineage. His elevation to such a significant ecclesiastical position accentuates the historical narrative of the French monarchy's close ties to the Church—a connection that remains deeply embedded in the collective consciousness of the French people, both in France and the diaspora around the world.

Moreover, this event invites reflection on the role of monarchy within the modern religious landscape. The intertwining of royal and ecclesiastical authority can be seen as a reaffirmation of the principles of governance that emphasize the divine right of kings. Sire Rubén's leadership, recognized by many ecclesiastical authorities around the world, serves as a potent symbol of this confluence, suggesting a path forward that honors both the past and the evolving needs of the faithful.

In an era marked by rapid societal changes and challenges to traditional structures, the reaffirmation of the Gallican Rite and the royal consecration of Sire Esteve IV also prompt a reevaluation of national identity within the context of faith. The ecclesiastical recognition of a royal figure within its ranks can serve to bridge divides, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends individual beliefs, while simultaneously honoring the rich history of ancient France.

This consecration of Sire Esteve IV is not merely a ceremonial act but a profoundly deep statement regarding the future of the Gallican Rite, the Merovingian Dynasty, and their roles within the broader  Christian community. It is a testament to the resilience of the Gallican Rite and the enduring significance of the ancient French monarchy. It invites all stakeholders—clergy, laity, and the broader community—to engage in a renewed dialogue about the intersections of faith, tradition, and identity in an ever-evolving world. The restoration of the Gallican Rite, coupled with the royal endorsement of Sire Esteve IV, heralds a new chapter that promises to enrich the spiritual landscape of France and the French diaspora, inspiring future generations to explore the depths of their heritage with renewed vigor and understanding.