Maundy Thursday

Introduction: What is Maundy Thursday?

Maundy Thursday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples. According to the Gospel of John, Jesus washed his disciples’ feet during the meal and gave them a new commandment to love one another. The word “maundy” comes from the Latin “mandatum,” meaning “commandment” and refers to Jesus’ commandment to love one another as he loved them. The event is also known as Holy Thursday, Covenant Thursday, Sheer Thursday, or simply Thursday of Mysteries.

Observances and Traditions

Maundy Thursday is observed in different ways around the world. In some churches, it is customary to perform a foot-washing ceremony, where members of the congregation wash each other’s feet in remembrance of Jesus’ act of humility. Some churches also celebrate the Lord’s Supper or Holy Communion on this day, while others observe a Tenebrae service, where a series of scriptures and hymns are read as candles are extinguished, symbolizing the darkness of the crucifixion. In some countries, there are also processions or masses to commemorate the events of the Passion of Christ leading up to his crucifixion. Regardless of the specific traditions, Maundy Thursday is a time for Christians to remember the sacrifice that Jesus made for humanity and to reflect on his teachings of love, humility, and service to others.