King Charles III emphasized the significance of friendship and acts of kindness in a recorded address delivered to a traditional pre-Easter church service. The monarch was unable to attend due to ongoing cancer treatment.
Queen Camilla represented the king at the Royal Maundy Service at Worcester Cathedral. She distributed specially minted coins to individuals recognized for their public service. This annual event, known as Maundy Thursday in Britain, takes place on the Thursday before Easter.
While the message from Charles did not directly address the health issues of the royals, it marked his first public statement since his daughter-in-law’s chemotherapy revelation. He highlighted Jesus’ example of service and care, underscoring the nation’s reliance on gestures of friendship, particularly in times of need.
The service, tracing back to 600 AD, commemorates the Last Supper, where Jesus demonstrated humility by washing his disciples’ feet.
Unlike medieval times, sovereigns no longer wash the feet of the needy. Instead, Camilla distributed purses containing special coins, known as Maundy money, to 75 women and 75 men, corresponding to the king’s age.
In his message, Charles reflected on his pledge during his Coronation Service to emulate Christ’s example of service. He acknowledged his ongoing commitment to this principle.
The king has scaled back public appearances since early February when he disclosed his cancer treatment. Despite this, he continues his state duties, engaging in regular meetings with the prime minister and fulfilling administrative tasks.
Last week, the Princess of Wales, formerly known as Kate Middleton and wife of Prince William, revealed her own undisclosed cancer diagnosis. This news followed her abdominal surgery in January.
