King Charles has issued a Easter message that tries to build bridges between different religions and recognize the efforts of those who provide humanitarian aid in wars and disasters.
“One of the puzzles of our humanity is how we are capable of great cruelty and great kindness,” said the king, in a message ahead of Maundy’s traditional service, held this year in Durham’s cathedral.
King and Queen Camilla will attend the service in which the special coins, Maundy’s money, are presented to 76 men and women, the same number as the King’s age.
The king has promoted links between different religions, and this Christian message also praises goodness in Jewish and Islamic religions.
In his message about the meaning of Easter, the king speaks of the “paradox of human life” in which the heroism of humanitarian workers contrasts with terrible scenes of suffering in war.
A new humanitarian medal has been launched, honoring those who risk their own lives to help others in emergencies and war areas, and the king acclaimed his disinterest and compassion.
For Christians, Maundy’s service marks the last dinner, and the King’s message speaks of the humility of Jesus that “knelt and washed the feet of many of those who would abandon him.”
The king said that for people of all religions that “seek the good of others,” the central message is love for others.
“There are three virtues that the world still needs: faith, hope and love. And the greatest thesis is love,” said the King’s message.
King Charles is a man of faith and the Palace officials said that the religious mosaics he saw in Ravenna was moved in the state visit last week to Italy.
The king lost last year’s service because his cancer treatment, and the queen gave the money of her Walf.
This year’s Maundy coins will include a £ 5 that commemorates the Queen Mother and a World War of 50p commemorative, being the beneficiaries that have helped their local churches and community.
This is one of the oldest real ceremonies, which dates back to the thirteenth century and the reign of King Juan.
