© Jeannot Ries
The nation’s three-day celebrations concluded in Luxembourg City’s Cathedral on Saturday, where Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich praised Grand Duke Guillaume’s attentive leadership and commitment to Luxembourg’s diverse society.
Guests began arriving from 10.30am, where they were welcomed by Pastor Tom Kerger on the forecourt of the Cathedral. Only Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa entered through a separate entrance.
Alongside personalities from politics, public institutions, and diplomatic representatives, as well as the entire grand-ducal family, around 240 citizens were invited to take part in the ceremony in Luxembourg City.
In his sermon, Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich reflected on Luxembourg’s diversity – a theme that had already been central to the celebrations of the previous two days. He highlighted how Grand Duke Guillaume had consciously and attentively engaged with this diversity during his tour.
The Cardinal expressed his confidence in the new Grand Duke, saying the country was in "good and capable hands." "You can do this," he added, stating that Guillaume had demonstrated this together with Grand Duchess Stéphanie over the past days. The young Prince Charles, he said, was also a sign of hope for the nation’s future.
Luxembourg, Hollerich continued, would keep moving forward thanks to the continuity of its dynasty. He expressed his deep gratitude to Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa for their service, concluding his sermon with the words: "We stand with you," speaking on behalf of all Catholics and Christians in the country.
The celebrations came to a close with the performance of the national anthem inside the Cathedral.
