Maundy Money honour for Jim Johnston
Warmest congratulations to Mr Jim Johnston, who is one of this year’s recipients of the Royal Maundy money.
Accompanied by his daughter Carolyn Jackson, Jim received his Maundy coins from Prince Charles at the special service yesterday in St George’s Chapel, Windsor.
Bishop David nominated Jim for his extensive charitable work in Northern Ireland. He is a retired financial advisor and a former director of the Ardbarron Trust.
Jim had an ‘unforgettable’ day at Windsor.
“It was both a surprise and delight to open the invitation from the Queen to be a guest at the Maundy Thursday Service in Windsor Chapel,” he said.
“The occasion was so special and significant. Though Her Majesty was unable to attend Prince Charles took her place. The St George’s Chapel was magnificent in every way. The warm welcome, the caring staff and the informal excellence of all the detailed arrangements leaves me short of superlatives.
“The Service highlighted the supremacy of Jesus Christ and the significance of His Life and actions , referring generously to this in two Lessons – John 13:1 –15 and Matthew 25: 31 –46 (I have set you an example, you are to do as I have done for you).
Prince Charles then graciously gave 2 leather purses of coins, one white and one red, to each of us, with his words of thank you. Very touching. The Reception in another magnificent building gave time to meet with other appreciative guests. An unforgettable day and I am grateful for such an honour.”
In recommending Jim as a Maundy Money recipient Bishop David said:
“As a successful businessman Jim ensured that large portions of the business’s profits were poured into community projects that would meet the needs of the most vulnerable in our society. Jim has spent and continues to spend significant time mentoring and encouraging those who find themselves working in tough environments. His work has enabled him to build contacts across a variety of denominations. In everything that Jim has undertaken he has displayed hard work, integrity, generosity and a concern to serve those whom others would overlook.”
Also honoured this year, Mrs Daphne Wright.
Maundy Money
Each recipient of Maundy money is given two small leather purses by The Queen, one red and one white.
The first contains a small amount of ordinary coinage which symbolises the Sovereign’s gift for food and clothing. The second purse contains Maundy coins up to the value of the Sovereign’s age. The coins are legal tender, but recipients normally prefer to retain them as a keepsake.