Maundy Thursday Feet washing - A thing of the past?

What is the origins of the name Maundy? The name 'Maundy' is derived from the command or mandatum by Christ at the Last Supper, to love one another. During the Last Supper, Jesus washed his disciples feet. This act has sometimes been followed literally in history as a good way of reminding rulers that they are here to serve their subjects.

What happens in England on Maundy Thursday?
In England, the custom of washing feet by the Monarch was carried out until 1689. Up until then the King or Queen would wash the feet of the poor on Maundy Thursday in Westminster Abbey. (You should, however, note that the feet were first washed by Yeoman of the Laundry before the monarch had to wash them and kiss them!). Food and clothing were also handed out to the poor.

Maundy Thursday Ceremony
In England today, the Queen follows a very traditional role of giving Maundy Money to a group of pension giving money to the poor dates from the 13th century. A complete set of Maundy money consists of a groat (4p), a threepence (3p), a half-groat (2p) and a penny (1p). Every year on this day, the Queen attends a Royal Maundy service in one of the many cathedrals through is distributed to male and female pensioners from local communities near the Cathedral where the Service tales place.

The Service
Yeomen of the Guards carry the Maundy Money in white and red leather purses on golden alms trays on their heads. The amount of Maundy Money handed out, and the number of people receiving the coins, is equal to the age of the monarch. The white leather purse contains silver Maundy coins matching the Queen's age in pence - 82p, while the red purse contains ordinary money. In 2008, 82 male and 82 female pensioners will receive 82p in Maundy Money, because the Queen is 82 years old this year. The men and women who receive the coins are all retired pensioners recommended by clergy and ministers of all denominations, in recognition of service to the Church and to the community.

What is Maundy Money?
Maundy coins are specially minted for the occasion and are legal tender and, a limited numbers, they are much sought after by collectors.

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