King Charles III and Queen Camilla held the Royal Maundy Service in north Wales this year, an unprecedented move for the annual event.
Thursday’s service marks the second time the Easter tradition took place in Wales in the service’s 800-year history, with the last time being in 1982.
The director of mission for Church in Wales, Grahame Davies, said it was “hugely significant” for the service to be held in north Wales for the first time, according to the BBC.
Additionally, the Bishop of St. Asaph Cathedral said he was “nervous” about leading the “ancient” service, which began in 1210 by King John and commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ, per the outlet.
King Charles presented Royal Maundy gifts to approximately 77 men and 77 women from Wales and other dioceses across the UK, in recognition of outstanding Christian service and helping their communities.
The “77” number matches the monarch’s age, and recipients received two purses containing the “Maundy Money.”
The Dean of St Asaph Cathedral, Nigel Williams, said they were “deeply honored” to host the service, according to BBC.
Notably, Wales is a special place for the royal family as the titles Prince and Princess of Wales — currently held by Prince William and Kate Middleton — are the direct heirs to the throne.
The Prince of Wales title was previously held by Charles and Princess of Wales by the late Princess Diana.
And since earning their titles, William and Middleton have made many trips to Wales.
Charles and Camilla played a special role at this year’s Royal Maundy Service, which commemorates the Christian holy day on the Thursday before Easter.
The royal family takes part in many special holiday traditions.
Last Christmas, William, Kate and their three children — Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10 and Prince Louis, 7 — all took part in the Christmas Day walk where they had meaningful interactions with adoring crowd members.
The family of five also attended a Christmas Day church service at St. Mary Magdalene Church.
Earlier that month, the little ones also made an appearance for the annual “Together at Christmas” carol service at Westminster Abbey.
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