Grieving Queen Mary marks important milestone for her twins just days after her father's death

Svar Nanan-Sen
Sat, 18 Apr 2026 14:31:42 +0000

Queen Mary of Denmark attended the confirmation of her twin children, Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine, at Fredensborg Palace Church on Saturday, despite mourning the recent loss of her father.

The 15-year-old royals received the sacrament in a ceremony conducted by Royal Confessor Bishop Henrik Wigh-Poulsen, with their mother appearing composed and smiling as she accompanied them into the church.

The occasion carried a poignant undertone, arriving less than a week after Professor John Dalgleish Donaldson passed away at the age of 84.

The Danish Queen's presence demonstrated her determination to celebrate her children's milestone despite her personal grief.

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Princess Josephine selected an ivory white confirmation gown featuring long sleeves from Australian designer Zimmermann for the religious ceremony.

The teenage royal accessorised with a pearl crucifix necklace and completed her outfit with white pointed-toe sling-back heels, styling her brown hair in soft waves with delicate twists framing her face.

Her mother chose a sophisticated navy blue outfit designed by Claire Mischevani for the occasion.

The Queen's long-sleeved dress was paired with a coordinating headpiece, creating an elegant appearance befitting the significant family event.

King Frederik accompanied the twins alongside their elder siblings, Crown Prince Christian and Princess Isabella, making it a full family gathering for the religious milestone.

Princess Isabella opted for an elegant dress in a deep forest green shade for her younger siblings' special day.

In advance of the confirmation, the Danish royal household released a collection of photographs documenting Vincent and Josephine's lives through the years.

The digital album prompted an outpouring of affection from royal supporters, with one commenting on the "beautiful photos of the cutest twins" whilst another recalled the day of their birth, praising Queen Mary's dedication as a mother.

Professor Donaldson, an academic, died in Hobart, Tasmania, with the Queen of Denmark announcing the news on Sunday through an official statement.

Queen Mary shared a black and white photograph of her father, which she had taken on 23 March 2026, alongside a deeply personal message.

"My heart is heavy, and my thoughts are grey. My beloved father has passed away," she wrote. "But I know that when the grief settles, the memories will brighten my day, and what will remain strongest is love and gratitude for everything he gave me and taught me."