Queen Camilla Replaces King Charles at Royal Maundy Amidst Cancer Battle

King Charles III was absent from the Royal Maundy Service due to his cancer diagnosis, but Queen Camilla stepped in to distribute Maundy Money on his behalf. King Charles held private audiences at Buckingham Palace, while a recorded message from him was played at the service. Despite his absence, he is expected to attend the Easter Mattins Service at St. George's Chapel on Sunday as his cancer treatment continues.

Queen Camilla Steps In for King Charles at Royal Maundy Service Amidst Cancer Treatment

Worcester, England – Queen Camilla gracefully assumed the mantle of her husband, King Charles III, at the Royal Maundy Service held at Worcester Cathedral on Thursday. The monarch was unable to attend the annual event due to his ongoing cancer treatment.

King Charles' Private Audiences

Despite his absence from the public ceremony, King Charles continued to fulfill his official duties privately at Buckingham Palace. He received ambassadors Epimeni Bapfinda of Burundi and Ruslan Bolbocean of Moldova, who presented Letters of Recall and Letters of Credence, respectively.

Ancient Tradition Continues

Queen Camilla, adorned in regal attire, meticulously distributed gifts of "Maundy Money" on behalf of herself and King Charles to 75 men and 75 women. This time-honored tradition, dating back to the 7th century, symbolizes the monarch's commitment to serving and caring for their subjects. Each recipient received two coin purses: one white, containing custom silver Maundy coins, and one red, housing a £5 coin featuring the Tudor Dragon and a 50 pence coin commemorating the Royal National Lifeboat Institution's bicentennial anniversary.

Historical Significance

By participating in the Royal Maundy Service, Queen Camilla etched her name in the annals of history as the first consort to lead this cherished tradition. The monarchy traces its involvement in this ceremony to the teachings of Jesus Christ, who, according to the Gospel of John, washed the feet of his disciples as an act of humility and service.

King Charles' Message

Although physically absent, King Charles addressed the congregation through a poignant audio message. "It is, for me, a great sadness that I cannot be with you all today," he conveyed. "The Maundy Service has a very special place in my heart. It has its origin in the life of Our Lord who knelt before his disciples and, to their great surprise, washed their travel-weary feet."

Upcoming Easter Service

Despite his current health challenges, King Charles is expected to participate in the traditional Easter Mattins Service at St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle this Sunday. This event, typically attended by the monarch and members of the royal family, will be scaled back in accordance with medical advice to minimize the King's contact with others during his treatment.

Royal Family's Shared Diagnosis

Notably, King Charles is not the only member of the royal family grappling with cancer. His daughter-in-law, Catherine, Princess of Wales, revealed her own diagnosis last Friday. Both individuals are currently undergoing treatment and receiving support from their loved ones and medical professionals.