The outstanding Christian service of two URC members were honoured by King Charles on Maundy Thursday.
The Revd Louise Gee, an East Midland Synod Pastoral Consultant who also serves as Chaplain and Trustee at Friary Drop In (West Bridgford), and John East, a former Elder from Central URC in Darwen, attended a ceremony in Durham Cathedral for the annual presentation of Maundy Money just before the Easter weekend.
Each year, purses with the special coins are distributed by the Monarch to a selected number of men and women whose ages match the age of the Royal on Maundy Thursday. This year, 76 people received the Maundy Money, to the value of 76p in a white purse. The gift is to mark their years of Christian service in their communities. The tradition dates back to 1210. Also handed out to the recipients was a red purse containing a £5 coin commemorating The Queen Mother and a 50p coin featuring stories of WWII.
Explaining how he felt humbled, John who has served as Chair of DARE (Darwen Asylum Seeker and Refugee Enterprise and held many roles within the community, said: “I was delighted to be nominated to receive Maundy Money. Having the privilege to serve the Christian Church in many roles, it’s important to reflect each day on developing that relationship with Jesus and to be able to learn and sustain a living faith.”
Because of her strong connections with North East England and Northumbrian spirituality, Louise was delighted that this year’s ceremony took place at the cathedral. She was accompanied by her eldest son Duncan.
“This was probably one of the most amazing days ever,” said Louise. “The feeling when the envelope arrived, once I’d got past the thought that this was a joke, was just one of great excitement, but Maundy Thursday definitely topped all my expectations. A very proud day but for sure, the icing on the cake was when King Charles took my hand and thanked me for the incredible work I have done and continue to do within chaplaincy, church and community.
“I accepted these purses with great delight and great pride on behalf of all those I have walked alongside over the years in many churches, in the prison and those who live on the margins – all who have been such a blessing to my ministry for whom I give thanks to our Lord. I’ve been asked if I’m still basking in the afterglow – the answer is yes!”
John who attended with his wife Margaret, added: “There is no more challenging role of serving and, in turn, being served working with the casualties from war torn conflicts, famine, injustice that arrive in Blackburn with Darwen. Many are from other faiths and it’s been a miracle to work along other faith groups seeking reconciliation, peace and justice.”