King Charles reaffirms Coronation pledge to serve with ‘my whole heart’

THE King has reaffirmed his Coronation pledge “not to be served, but to serve” with “my whole heart” in a personal message ahead of Easter.

Charles’s audio address was broadcast to a congregation at Worcester Cathedral where the Royal Maundy Service was held in his absence, due to the 75-year-old monarch’s continuing treatment for cancer.

It did not directly refer to the King and the Princess of Wales’ treatment for undisclosed types of cancer, but highlighted those who “extend the hand of friendship” – likely to be interpreted as the nation’s response to the monarchy’s double health scare.

The major event in the royal calendar sees Maundy money – newly minted coins – distributed to community stalwarts by the head of state in recognition of their service.

The Queen deputised for the King in the ceremony, a first for a Queen Consort.

Charles said in his address: “The act of worship, here in Worcester Cathedral, reminds me of the pledge I made at the beginning of the Coronation service – to follow Christ’s example ‘not to be served but to serve’.

“That I have always tried to do and continue to do, with my whole heart. It is my special prayer today that Our Lord’s example of serving one another might continue to inspire us and to strengthen all our communities.”

The pre-recorded message began with a Bible reading from the Gospel of John, which describes how Jesus washed the feet of his disciples.

Seventy-five women and 75 men – signifying the King’s age – were presented with two purses, one red and one white, filled with Maundy money.

Charles added: “In this country we are blessed by all the different services that exist for our welfare. But over and above these organisations and their selfless staff, we need and benefit greatly from those who extend the hand of friendship to us.”