|
 In
the Middle Ages charity was considered the duty of all, generosity to the
poor and infirm was a Christian duty for those who had anything to give.
The teachings of the church emphasised giving as
a means to demonstrate contrition for sin, and visible charity could be a
useful means of displaying wealth and power. This applied to monarchs as
much and perhaps more so than the ordinary wealthy, as for them there was
also an important ceremonial aspect
When King John found himself excommunicated with
England under interdict. It is at this time that the custom of Royal Maundy,
giving a penny each to thirteen poor, was probably begun. John?s
appropriation of what was a church custom demonstrates how he was determined
to show Christian charity as proof of his continued piety and authority
within the kingdom.
Alm's for the poor !
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