King Charles to call for acts of friendship in first public remarks since Kate’s cancer diagnosis

London
CNN
 — 

King Charles III has recorded a message for Maundy Thursday that will address the importance of acts of friendship “especially in a time of need,” following his and Catherine, Princess of Wales’ cancer diagnoses, according to the UK’s PA Media news agency.

The King’s audio message — which will be played at the annual Royal Maundy service at Worcester Cathedral in England on Thursday — will be his first public comments since Catherine revealed she was undergoing chemotherapy.

Charles, who is also currently undergoing treatment for cancer, is not attending the service, with his wife, Queen Camilla, handing out traditional Maundy gifts on his behalf.

Queen Camilla’s attendance comes as Charles steps back from public-facing duties as he undergoes treatment.

The King is, however, expected to attend church on Easter Sunday alongside his wife, marking his most significant public appearance since his diagnosis.

Maundy Thursday — also known as Holy Thursday — is a Christian event that takes place each year on the Thursday before Easter. It is an ancient ceremony that dates back to 600 A.D. and marks how Jesus washed the feet of disciples at the Last Supper.

The monarch no longer washes the feet of those in need. Normally, the sovereign gives out specially-minted coins to people in recognition of their service to the church and local community.

Queen Camilla will distribute the Maundy money in two purses — one red and one white — at Worcester Cathedral to 75 men and 75 women, in a nod to the King’s age.

Charles’ message was recorded in mid-March, according to PA Media, and will not directly refer to his or Kate’s health.

Instead, the King will say how Jesus set an “example of how we should serve and care for each other,” 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.”