Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday or the Thursday of the Lord's Supper, is a Christian feast celebrated during Holy Week on the Thursday before Easter. It commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his Apostles, during which he established the sacrament of Holy Communion (the Eucharist) and the priesthood. The day marks the beginning of the Paschal Triduum, the three holiest days in the Christian calendar leading up to Easter
. Key aspects of Holy Thursday include:
- The reenactment of the Last Supper at Mass, where Jesus broke bread and shared wine with his disciples, symbolizing his body and blood given for salvation
- The washing of the feet by Jesus, demonstrating humility and service, which is often reenacted by priests washing the feet of parishioners during Mass
- The institution of the priesthood, where Jesus appointed his disciples as priests, a sacrament celebrated during the Chrism Mass when bishops bless oils used in sacraments like Baptism and Anointing of the Sick
- The transition from Lent to the Easter Triduum, with Holy Thursday evening Mass marking the start of this sacred period
After the Mass on Holy Thursday, the faithful often engage in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, reflecting Jesus' time in the Garden of Gethsemane before his arrest
. In summary, Holy Thursday is a profound day commemorating Jesus' final meal with his disciples, the establishment of the Eucharist and priesthood, and the call to service and sacrifice in Christian life
