Rev Jean and Dudley Coates said they are "hugely honoured" to have been nominated to receive Maundy money. The ceremony this year is in Worcester Cathedral where they will be joined by their daughters.
Each year on Maundy Thursday, The Monarch presents members of the Church of England with special 'Maundy' coins. The number of men and women always matches the Monarch's age – in 2024, the Queen will present 75 men and 75 women with specially-minted silver coins to the value of 75p - signifying King Charles's age - to thank them for their service to their local communities.
Jean was Rector of the Watercombe Benefice in South Dorset for 13 years and the diocese’s rural officer for Dorset for 15 years. Alongside those roles, she chaired the governing body of Kingston Mauward College. She was also elected by the College of Canons to represent them on the Cathedral Chapter.
Dudley is a lifelong Methodist and has been a local preacher for 55 years. In 2006 he was Vice President of the Methodist Conference (the senior lay office in British Methodism). He has recently relinquished the roles of lead Ecumenical Officer for the Southampton Methodist District and Methodist trustee on Churches Together in Dorset.
Bishop Stephen said: "I was delighted to nominate Jean and Dudley to receive Maundy money this year as thanks for their many years of service to their communities in the diocese. They have both dedicated their lives to making Jesus known."
This year, due to the King's cancer diagnosis, Her Majesty the Queen will distribute the money.