The Seraphim Toll

Guard of honor in connection with the Seraphim Toll on April 17, 2021 2021 by reason of the passing of H.R.H. Prince Philip. Photo: Pelle T Nilsson/SPA
Riddarholm Church and the Seraphim Toll
Since the beginning of the 19th century, Riddarholmen Church has been the designated church of the Order of the Seraphim, meaning that the seraphim shields of all deceased seraphim knights are kept in the church. As long as the knight/member is alive, the seraphim shield is kept by the Royal Orders of Knighthood at the Royal Palace.
On the day of the funeral, the coat of arms of the deceased seraphim knight or seraphim member is solemnly taken from the Royal Palace to Riddarholmen Church. The Seraphim Toll, as it is known, takes place for one hour between noon and 1pm, during which time the great bell of Riddarholmen Church is tolled continuously.
A section of the Swedish Armed Forces Music Corps takes part in the ceremony at Riddarholmen Church. There, a representative of the Royal Orders of Knighthood announces the death of the seraphim knight or member, and at the same time announces brief biographical information about the deceased in a short oration in their memory.
There is free public access to the church in connection with the ceremony and Seraphim Toll. Representatives of the Royal Orders of Knighthood can answer questions during the latter part of the Seraphim Toll.