‘Story of gentleness, sadness and deep care’ inspires royal honour
A CHURCHGOER described as “an ongoing example of humble service in Jesus’s name” has been honoured by the Queen.
Diane McCarthy, a reader at Holy Trinity Church, Hinckley, was among the recipients of Maundy money in recognition of their service to the Church and community.
Every year, the Queen commemorates Maundy Thursday by offering a special gift to pensioners who have been nominated by clergy and ministers in their diocese, in Diane’s case, the Diocese of Leicester.
“Diane’s story is one of gentleness, sadness and deep care,” said a Diocese of Leicester spokeswoman.
“She married in her 20s to Dave, a funeral director, and they had a daughter, Sally.
“Very sadly, Dave died after they had been married for just two years. Since then she raised her daughter and has cared for her grandchildren – but also devoted herself to the service of others. Diane is a trained reader, not because she was very confident or outgoing, but to help lead a service if no-one else could.
“She visits, cares, encourages and prays – to those in hospital and at home. She’s quiet but very gracious and faithful, despite facing loss and loneliness. During the pandemic, Diane has continued to show great care for those who are isolating, cleaning the church faithfully to allow a return to services, and also vacated her house so someone else could quarantine there for two weeks.
“She is an ongoing example humble service in Jesus’s name.
This year, the Maundy money was blessed at the Royal Chapel, in St James’s Palace, before being posted to the recipients, with a letter from the Queen.
“When I received the Maundy money, I shed a tear,” Diane said. “It is a real honour and it reminds me of King Jesus, who gives everything and who loves us as we are.
“It’s always been in my heart to care for others, and I’ve always clung closely to God.
“I live to serve Him and to share His love and, though life has at times been a struggle, he has changed me and I’ve learnt so much. I realised a life with Him is far better.”
This year, the coins have been specially created to commemorate the Queen’s 95th birthday as well as the 50th anniversary of decimalisation. of