Holy Thursday

Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, begins the Sacred Triduum—the three holiest days of the Christian year. On this night, the Church commemorates the Last Supper, when Jesus instituted the Eucharist and the priesthood, and washed the feet of his disciples.

The Last Supper

On the night before he died, Jesus gathered with his apostles to celebrate the Passover meal. During this supper, he transformed the ancient ritual into something entirely new:

"As they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks for it, and broke it. He gave to the disciples and said, 'Take, eat; this is my body." — Matthew 26:26-28

In this moment, Jesus instituted the Holy Eucharist—the sacrament that would make his sacrifice present throughout all time.

The Institution of the Priesthood

When Jesus commanded, "Do this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19), he ordained the apostles as the first priests of the New Covenant. Every valid Eucharist since that night flows from this institution.

The Washing of the Feet

Before the supper, Jesus performed an act of profound humility:

"arose from supper, and laid aside his outer garments. He took a towel and wrapped a towel around his waist. Then he poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him." — John 13:4-5

When Peter protested, Jesus replied: "If I do not wash you, you have no share with me." This act established servant leadership as the model for all Christian ministry.

The New Commandment

The name "Maundy" comes from the Latin mandatum (commandment), referring to Jesus' words:

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." — John 13:34

The Agony in the Garden

After supper, Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane where he prayed in agony, sweating blood, while his disciples slept. Here he surrendered to the Father's will: "Not my will, but yours, be done."

Liturgical Observance

• Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper: The only Mass celebrated this day
• Washing of Feet: The priest washes feet in imitation of Christ
• Transfer of the Blessed Sacrament: The Eucharist is carried to a place of reposition
• Stripping of the Altars: Churches are stripped bare after Mass
• Adoration: The faithful keep watch with Jesus through the night