Maundy Money

THE Queen is to visit Derby city's Cathedral on April 1st to distribute Maundy Money. This traditional ceremony, dating back to King John in 1210, will be held on Maundy Thursday – which commemorates the Last Supper – during Easter week. Maunday Thursday is followed by Good Friday. (ThisisDerbyshire.co.uk)

The name 'Maundy' is derived from the Latin word “mandatum”, meaning a commandment. Jesus Christ, at the Last Supper, commanded:

'And now I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.' John 15:12

The monarch of England had to wash poor's feet and kiss them, you may wonder how the England Kings could stand the poor's smelly feet, don't worry of course, the feet were first washed by Yeoman of the Laundry before the monarch had to "wash" them again. Since 1689 this tradition was replaced by giving out Maundy Money to pensioners.

Maundy coins are specially minted for the occasion are much sought after by collectors. (Festivals and Celebrations)