A special message from the King has been broadcast at the Royal Maundy Service at Worcester Cathedral.
In it, Charles, who is being treated for cancer, expressed his sadness at not being able to attend the event in person as the "Maundy Service has a very special place in my heart".
The King, who is seen seated at his desk in Buckingham Palace, stressed the importance of acts of kindness "especially in times of need". He explained the service "has its origin in the life of Our Lord who knelt before his disciples and, to their great surprise, washed their travel-weary feet and, as we have just heard, in doing so he deliberately gave to them and to us all an example of how we should serve and care for each other."
Although the King didn't directly refer to his health – or that of the Princess of Wales, who also has cancer – he spoke of the importance of kindness and care for others.
"In this country we are blessed by all the different services that exist for our welfare. But over and above these organisations and their selfless staff, we need and benefit greatly from those who extend the hand of friendship to us, especially in a time of need."
Queen Camilla attended the service, one of the oldest royal ceremonies dating back to the 13th century. Seventy-five men and 75 women who have been involved in helping the church and their communities received purses, including a 50p marking the Royal National Lifeboat Institution's 200th anniversary and specially minted silver Maundy coins valuing a total of 75 pence. It follows the tradition of the Sovereign distributing gifts according to the years they have lived.
In his message, Charles said:" The 150 men and women who have been chosen today to receive the Maundy money from my wife are wonderful examples of such kindness, of going way beyond the call of duty and of giving so much of their lives to the service of others in their communities.
"The act of worship, here in Worcester Cathedral, reminds me of the pledge I made at the beginning of the coronation service - to follow Christ's example 'not to be served but to serve'.
"That I have always tried to do and continue to do with my whole heart.
"It is my special prayer today that Our Lord's example of serving one another might continue to inspire us and to strengthen all our communities.
"May God bless you all this Easter."
It is rare for a monarch to miss the annual event - Queen Elizabeth II missed only five Royal Maundy services during her reign, the last being in 2022, five months before her death.
King Charles is expected to make a public appearance on Sunday at the annual Easter service at St George's Chapel, Windsor.