On April 17, 2025, King Charles III presided over a traditional Maundy Thursday service at Durham Cathedral, where he distributed commemorative coins to 152 people in recognition of their contributions to the community. This event is part of the royal family’s longstanding Easter celebrations, with the coins symbolically awarded to represent the King’s age—76 men and 76 women were honored for their charitable services and dedication to local communities.
Queen Camilla accompanied the King during this occasion, having previously represented him at the Maundy service in 2024 while he was undergoing cancer treatment. This year’s service held additional significance, reflecting the King’s commitment to public engagement and his appreciation for humanitarian efforts during a time when many face various adversities.
The Maundy Thursday service has deep historical roots, tracing back to the 13th century and the reign of King John. Initially, this royal tradition involved the monarch washing the feet of the poor, mirroring the humility and service demonstrated by Jesus Christ. In this modern iteration, the Maundy money distributed by the King not only continues the practice but also embodies the spirit of charity and remembrance. This year’s Maundy set included a special £5 coin commemorating the late Queen Mother and a 50p coin honoring World War II.
Each recipient of the Maundy money was presented with two small leather purses, one red and one white. The white purse contained coins equivalent to the King’s age in pence, while the red purse included a smaller monetary gift symbolizing food and clothing provisions. Although all the coins are legal tender, many recipients choose to preserve them as keepsakes rather than spend them.
As the service unfolded, the Bishop of Norwich emphasized the act of giving Maundy money as a gesture of humility on behalf of the monarch. Outside the cathedral, crowds gathered, showing support for the King and Queen, while protesters from the anti-monarchy group Republic voiced their discontent. They criticized the tradition as “tone-deaf” in light of the current economic challenges faced by many.
In a reflective Easter message delivered just ahead of the ceremony, King Charles III spoke on the importance of bridging divides between different faiths and recognizing the efforts of individuals who provide humanitarian aid amidst conflicts and disasters. He acknowledged the duality of humanity’s capacity for both kindness and cruelty, emphasizing that regardless of one’s religious beliefs, a message of love and compassion unites all. The King’s message echoed the Christian observance of the Last Supper, underscoring the importance of humility and service to others.
The King has been vocal about fostering relationships among various religions, celebrating their inherent goodness while highlighting the acts of heroism displayed by humanitarian workers. During his Easter reflection, he articulated the notion that the virtues of faith, hope, and love are essential in contemporary society, famously noting, “The greatest of these is love.” His faith is indeed a central tenet of his identity, and it has been suggested by Palace aides that his experiences during recent state visits, such as to Italy, have further deepened his spiritual perspective.
In conclusion, this year’s Maundy Thursday service marked not just a continuation of a cherished royal tradition, but also a vital reflection on the teachings of compassion and community service, encapsulated in the King’s heartfelt message. As King Charles III forges his own path, he draws from centuries of royal heritage while simultaneously addressing contemporary issues with sensitivity and mindfulness.