King and Queen Consort to return to York this spring
The King and Queen Consort will return to York this spring, it was announced today (Wednesday).
The first Royal Maundy service in King Charles’ reign will take place on Thursday, 6 April, at York Minster.
The King and Camilla, Queen Consort, will distribute the Maundy Money to 74 men and 74 women (signifying the age of the monarch).
The Maundy, a gift from The King, is to thank them for their outstanding Christian service and for making a difference to the lives of people in their local communities.
Commenting on the service, the Dean of York, the Very Revd Dominic Barrington, said: “We are honoured that His Majesty has chosen York Minster to be his cathedral church for the first Maundy Service of his reign.
“Taking place in Holy Week, this historic service symbolises, humility, care, kindness and appreciation of others.
“The King’s Maundy gift will be a moment of celebration and thanksgiving for 148 exceptional people who have made an impact in their communities.”
It will mark an early return to York for the King and Queen Consort.
They were last in the city on 9 November, when the King went to the Minster to unveil a statue of his mother, the late Queen.
That visit was marred by an incident when eggs were thrown at the royal party as they arrived at Micklegate Bar.
A man has been charged in connection with the incident and will face trial on 14 April, just over a week after the royal Maundy visit.
The late Queen distributed the Royal Maundy at York Minster on two occasions: first on 30 March 1972 and again on 5 April 2012, during her Diamond Jubilee Year. A plaque commemorating both visits can be found on the Queen’s Path between St William’s College and York Minster.
Maundy Thursday commemorates Jesus Christ washing the feet of his disciples at the Last Supper. The service is rooted in the ancient history and traditions of the church.
The 148 men and women to receive the Maundy money are selected from Church of England dioceses across the country, and Anglican and Ecumenical partners across the UK.