Queen hands out Maundy money

Queen Elizabeth II distributes Maundy money during the Maundy service, at Christ Church Cathedral in Oxford PA

The Queen was in Oxford today where she distributed Maundy money to elderly people for their service to the community.  

She was joined by the Duke of Edinburgh for the annual Royal Maundy Service .

The service was held in Christ Church cathedral. The recipients of the Maundy money were retired pensioners recommended by clergy and ministers from all denominations.

A red purse and white purse were given to 87 men and 87 women, signifying the Queen's 87th year.

In the red purse was a £5 coin and a 50p coin commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Queen's coronation in 1953.

The white purse contained the traditional Maundy money - silver 1p, 2p, 3p and 4p pieces.  The coins were equal to 87p, again signifying her 87th year.

The tradition of distributing Maundy money goes back to the 13th century with sovereigns giving money to the poor and washing their feet.

Since the 15th century, the amount of Maundy money handed out and the number of recipients have related to the sovereign's years.

News
Trump pastor says Iran war is a 'spiritual obligation'
Trump pastor says Iran war is a 'spiritual obligation'

One of Donald Trump’s most vocal Christian supporters has justified the Israeli-US military strike on Iran.

Why is the British monarch also called Defender of the Faith?
Why is the British monarch also called Defender of the Faith?

The British monarch traditionally bears the title “Defender of the Faith” which also appears on British coins as “F.D.”  As it’s been back in the news lately, now’s a good time to consider it in more detail.

Christians concerned about Starmer's new social cohesion policy
Christians concerned about Starmer's new social cohesion policy

British values mean liberalism and LGBT rights according to the government.

Poll suggests opposition to CoE's role in public life
Poll suggests opposition to CoE's role in public life

In a bizarre twist, apparently 14 per cent of people want the king to head multiple religions.