King Charles of the United Kingdom addressed a message of solidarity and mutual aid on the occasion of the traditional service of Maundy Thursday in Worcester from where he was absent this year.
According to Sky News, King Charles' message was recorded in mid-March at Buckingham Palace. King Charles will attend the Easter service at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, along with Camilla and other members of the royal family.
In his recorded message, he reaffirmed his coronation pledge to follow the example of Christ "not to be served, but to serve." "That's what I've always tried to do and continue to do with all my heart," he said.
"It is my special prayer today that our Lord's example will continue to inspire us and strengthen all our communities."
At the same time, he expressed his "great sadness" that he missed the traditional Maundy Thursday ceremony. Every Thursday before Easter Sunday, the monarch distributes gifts of coins - corresponding to his age - to pensioners who have contributed to their church and community. The ceremony dates back to the 4th century and commemorates Jesus washing the feet of his Apostles at the last supper. Queen Camilla represented Charles for the first time this year.
"The Royal Maundy Service has a very special place in my heart," he said, after a Bible reading at the spot where Jesus washed his disciples' feet. He said the verse, from the Gospel of John, "has its origin in the life of our Lord, who knelt before His disciples and, to their great astonishment, washed their feet."
The monarch said that by this act Jesus set "an example of how we should serve and care for one another" - and how as a nation "we need and benefit greatly from those who extend the hand of friendship to us, especially in a time of need".
While he did not directly comment on his own health or the Princess of Wales' cancer diagnosis, he spoke about the importance of those who care for others. He added: "God bless you all this Easter."
Source: protothema.gr