<!–
<!–
<!– <!–
<!–
<!–
<!–
King Charles has stressed the importance of extending a helping hand to those in need, as a new portrait of the monarch is released.
After being advised by doctors not to hold public engagements with large numbers of people while they were receiving cancer treatment, Her Majesty decided to record a special audio message to be played at Thursday’s annual Holy Service.
Held this year at Worcester Cathedral, it is one of the most important events on the royal calendar each year and had great spiritual significance for Queen Elizabeth.
Every Thursday before Easter Sunday, the sovereign gives gifts in coins equivalent to their age to retirees who have contributed to his church and community.
The ceremony dates back to the 4th century and commemorates Jesus washing the feet of his Apostles at the Last Supper.
King Charles has stressed the importance of extending a hand of friendship to those in need, as a new portrait (pictured) of the monarch is released.
Her Majesty has decided to record a special audio message to be played at Thursday’s annual Holy Service. Camilla will replace Charles.
Queen Camilla will replace Her Majesty for the first time this year.
But earlier this month her husband recorded a special message and Bible reading in the 18th Century Hall at Buckingham Palace to be presented to the congregation.
While there is no mention of family health issues (his own cancer diagnosis and treatment, as well as that of his daughter-in-law, the Princess of Wales), his message of support will seem even more poignant.
His Majesty will say how the Lord Jesus gave us ‘an example of how we should serve and care for one another.’
He goes on to emphasize how, as a nation, “we benefit greatly from those who extend the hand of friendship to us, especially in times of need.”
The King will say the recipients of Maundy’s money are “wonderful examples of such kindness” by “giving so much of their lives in the service of others in their communities.”
And he will again amplify his own Coronation promise to “not be served but serve”.
It was recorded as audio rather than video, as Worcester Cathedral does not have the ability to play a television message.
King Charles’ daughter-in-law Kate Middleton (pictured) is also battling cancer. She revealed it in a video message last Friday.
King Charles looked cheerful and cheerful on Wednesday as he continued his “business as usual” outlook amid his battle with cancer.
The King’s meeting came as Queen Camilla met well-wishers during a visit to Shrewsbury, Shropshire, on Wednesday.
The new portrait accompanying the message shows the King relaxed and in good spirits, with a bouquet of spring flowers at his side, despite his personal ordeal.
Her Majesty will also lead a smaller-than-normal family party given the absence of the Prince and Princess of Wales and their family from church in Windsor on Easter Sunday, her most significant public appearance being her diagnosis in early February.
He continues to hold private meetings and work on state affairs, and yesterday hosted His Excellency Mohamed Nasheed, secretary general of the climate vulnerability forum, at Buckingham Palace.
Charles seemed cheerful and upbeat on Tuesday as he continued his “business as usual” outlook amid his battle with cancer.
The monarch smiled as he met Mohamed Nasheed, 56, secretary general of the Climate Vulnerability Forum, at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday.
Despite being told by his doctors to cancel his public engagements before his surgery, the King has insisted on keeping up with his paperwork and holding meetings.
Charles was in good spirits when he met Mr Nasheed, who has won numerous awards for his work protecting the environment and combating climate change.
Nasheed was also the first democratically elected president of the Maldives when he took power in 20087 after a campaign of non-violent civil disobedience against dictator Maumoon Gayoom.