King Charles III will deliver an Easter message emphasizing the importance of friendship, particularly during difficult times, which will be his first public statement since Princess Kate’s cancer diagnosis. The pre-recorded audio message will precede the king’s attendance at a Maundy Thursday service at Worcester Cathedral. In his message, the King will speak about the example set by Jesus in serving and caring for others, and the importance of friends extending a helping hand during times of need. While he will not directly address Princess Kate’s health or mention her by name, his words may be seen in the context of the ongoing family health crisis. The King will also deliver a Bible reading at the Easter Mattins Service at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. Queen Camilla will deputize for him at Thursday’s event due to his reduced public appearances on medical advice.
Charles, who is 75 years old, has been touched by the outpouring of support from well-wishers as he undergoes treatment for cancer, the details of which have not been disclosed by the palace. The king’s statement following Princess Kate’s diagnosis expressed his pride in her courage in sharing her illness, highlighting their strengthened bond through their shared hospital stays. The Royal Maundy service, part of the king’s role as head of the Anglican Church, involves distributing specially-made coins to individuals for their charitable acts. Camilla will take on this role during the service, which symbolizes the Last Supper where Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. The tradition dates back to 600AD, with the coins introduced in 1662 by Charles II.
While receiving treatment for cancer, King Charles III continues to work behind the scenes, meeting with community and faith leaders as well as holding weekly audiences with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Last year, he attended the Royal Maundy service at York Minster, following the tradition of holding the event in various locations across the U.K. instead of solely in London. The event recognizes individuals for their acts of charity and goodwill, corresponding to the king’s age by distributing 75 coins to men and 75 coins to women. This year’s Maundy Thursday service at Worcester Cathedral will mark the king’s return to public engagement following his cancer diagnosis in February, with Queen Camilla representing him at the event.
Buckingham Palace confirmed the king’s attendance at the Easter Mattins Service at St. George’s Chapel, emphasizing the significance of the event in the royal calendar. The king’s statement during the service is expected to touch upon the theme of friendship, mirroring his earlier remarks in the pre-recorded Easter message. Despite his absence due to health reasons, King Charles III remains active in his role as monarch, including his duties within the Anglican Church. The king’s public relations team released a new photograph of him recording his address for the Easter message, showcasing a dedication to connecting with the public through virtual means during his treatment. The planned appearances at the Maundy Thursday service and Easter Mattins Service demonstrate the importance of spiritual events in the king’s role and his commitment to carrying out royal duties in the midst of personal health challenges.
