Intrigued by Maundy Money? Want to know more about how it all began, how recipients are chosen, or what the word maundy even means?
The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher talks about his first Royal Maundy as Lord High Almoner, when he guests on the latest episode of the Royal Mint Museum podcast.
The podcast delves into the history of the Maundy service, tracing it all the way back to Jesus himself.
“It is a deeply religious service,” says Bishop Graham. “Set in the context of Christian worship it is based around the 13th chapter of John’s Gospel in which we read that at the Last Supper in the Upper Room, Jesus, on the night that he was betrayed took a towel, wrapped it around himself and washed his disciples’ feet.
“And then, after washing their feet, he gives them perhaps the most beautiful words in the whole of Scripture. As Judas departs he says to his disciples who remain ‘I give you a new commandment. Love one another. As I have loved you so you are to love one another.’
“And that’s how the service begins and that’s where the word Maundy comes from the Latin for commandment, mandatum, which becomes maundy.”
During the podcast Bishop Graham also talks about how the Maundy Money recipients are chosen and the importance of gratitude.
“I think what the Maundy Service is, combined with celebrating service, is to mark gratitude and say ‘Thank you, you faithful servant of the Lord.’”
The Royal Mint Museum podcast The Secret Life of Coins, tells the stories of coins which have stopped bullets, coins used as jewellery and coins believed to heal or bring good luck.
This latest episode, Royal Recognition, takes in coins used in the State Opening of Parliament and Coronations as well as Maundy money, and is available on podcast channels including Apple and Spotify.
