Out and about. Maundy Thursday thoughts. Processions. And chocolate.

 In the late afternoon / early evening yesterday we went to take a look at San Telmo park, not far from our accommodation here in Las Palmas. Somehow I expected more grass. There are plenty of trees but a surprising amount of paved area. In the centre is a dog exercise zone, which strikes me as a good idea on a city - an area where dog owners can let their hounds off the leash for a bit of freedom that city living denies them. 

We took a look the little chapel in one corner of the park, very simple and plain outside but very ornate inside.

My photo of the interior is not so good as I would like because I couldn’t get right inside as a service was in progress.

Today is Jueves Santos, Holy Thursday, Maundy Thursday in the UK, so the king should be distributing Maundy money to one man and one woman for each year of the king’s age, according to one source. Since 1822, rather than ordinary money, the Sovereign gives out Maundy coins which are specially minted 1, 2, 3 and 4 penny pieces, and are legal tender - probably collectors’ pieces. At one time the sovereign would also wash the feet of the deserving poor, remembering Jesus washing the feet of his disciples as a symbol of humility and service. Elizabeth the First did it but I think it’s a long time since our kings and queens followed suit. 

This year Charles and Camilla will be at St Asaph cathedral in North Wales giving coins away. It is the first time the occasion has been held in North Wales, and only the second time ever in Wales, in the 800-year history of Maundy. Attendance at the service is by invitation only, and only those with invitations/passes will be admitted to the Cathedral grounds on the day of the service. Rather a shame for anyone who just wants to look at the cathedral, or even pray!

There will probably be a procession here later today. I was reminded of the Whit Walks in the North of England. Salford is asking for people to get involved in theirs on the 25 of May, Bank Holiday Monday, and to contribute money, of course.

As we approach Easter Sunday and the distribution of chocolate eggs, here is a link to an article about a KitKat lorry being stolen in Italy.

And here’s a link to an article about banning advertisements for chocolate on Uk television until after the 9.00pm watershed. Chocolate is only for adults, apart from those spoilt children who sit up.beyond the watershed!

Life goes on. Stay safe and well, everyone!