EPAKing Charles has issued an Easter message trying to build bridges between different faiths and recognising the efforts of those who provide humanitarian aid in wars and disasters.
"One of the puzzles of our humanity is how we are capable of both great cruelty and great kindness," said the King, in a message ahead of the traditional Maundy Service, held this year in Durham Cathedral.
The King and Queen Camilla will attend the service in which specially minted coins, the Maundy Money, are presented to 76 men and women, the same number as the King's age.
The King has promoted links between different religions - and this Christian message also praises the goodness in the Jewish and Islamic faiths.
In his message on the meaning of Easter, the King talks of the "paradox of human life" in which the heroism of humanitarian workers is contrasted with terrible scenes of suffering in war.
A new Humanitarian Medal has been launched, honouring those who risk their own lives to help others in emergencies and war zones, and the King hailed their selflessness and compassion.
For Christians, the Maundy Thursday service marks the Last Supper - and the King's message speaks of the humility of Jesus who "knelt and washed the feet of many of those who would abandon him".
The King said that for people of all religions who "seek the good of others" the core message is one of love for others.
"There are three virtues that the world still needs - faith, hope and love. And the greatest of these is love," said the King's message.
King Charles is a man of faith and was said by Palace officials to have been deeply moved by the religious mosaics he saw in Ravenna on last week's state visit to Italy.
The King missed last year's Maundy Service because of his cancer treatment, with the Queen giving out the Maundy Money on his behalf.
This year's Maundy coins will include a £5 one commemorating the Queen Mother and a 50p commemorating World War Two, with the recipients being people who have helped their local churches and community.
This is one of the oldest royal ceremonies, dating back at least as far as the 13th Century and the reign of King John.
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