Almoner

Almoner, that functionary of a religious house who had the dispensing of the money and other things set apart for alms, which must, by canon law, amount to at least a tenth of the revenues of the establishment. Afterwards, those ecclesiastics also received this name who were appointed by princes or bishops to the same office in their households. The Grand Almoner of France was one of the principal officers of the court and of the kingdom, usually a cardinal. Queens, princes, and princesses had also their almoners, and bishops were usually appointed to this office. In England, the office of Hereditary Grand Almoner is now a sinecure, his only duty being to distribute the coronation medals among the assembled spectators. The Lord High Almoner, who is usually a bishop, distributes twice a year the royal bounty, which consists in giving a silver penny apiece to as many poor persons as the sovereign is years of age.