https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/uk/maundy-thursday
It was a tradition for the monarch in England to wash the feet of the poor (which the Yeoman of the Laundry pre-washed) and kiss them on Maundy Thursday. This custom took place in England until 1689. It can be traced back as far as when kings in France performed this act as early as the 11th century. The first English king to do perform the feet-washing ritual was John after his excommunication. The number of paupers was 13 until Edward III, who changed it to the number of years he reigned.
The monarchs showed little enthusiasm for washing feet after the reign of James II but giving gifts of food and money remained. One silver penny would be given to one poor man and one poor woman for each year of the sovereign’s age. Food and clothing were also handed out to the poor. It is, to this day, customary for England’s monarch (king or queen) to distribute Maundy money on Maundy Thursday.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/lifestyle-buzz/why-queen-elizabeth-is-handing-out-purses-of-money-today-e2-80-93-with-help-from-princess-eugenie/ar-BBW45zF
The monarch, who celebrates her 93rd birthday on Sunday, appeared in good spirits as she took part in the distribution, which takes place annually on the Thursday before Easter. She was joined by granddaughter Princess Eugenie, marking just the second time a royal besides Prince Philip appeared with the Queen.
Ccarterglass's Blog 
Wow, Queen Elizabeth is 93. She is amazing. I learned about Maundy Thursday from my last church I attend but not as detailed as you presented. Thanks for the info. Happy Easter. ☦️ Celebrate in Peace, xox Karen
Sent from my iPhone
>
LikeLike
I would rather have a silver penny given to me in 1689 than the envelope given out by
Queen Elizabeth in 2018 eventhough she is 94 years old.
Bob (makes me feel like a pauper)
LikeLike