Holy Thursday marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum and commemorating the Last Supper and the institution of the Eucharist

Holy Thursday marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum, a three-day period in the Christian liturgical calendar that commemorates the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This solemn day holds profound significance for Christians worldwide, as they reflect on the Last Supper, Jesus’ final meal with his disciples before his crucifixion. In this article, we delve into the history, traditions, and observances associated with Holy Thursday.

History

The origins of Holy Thursday can be traced back to the events recounted in the New Testament of the Bible. According to the Gospels, the Last Supper took place on the evening before Jesus’ crucifixion, during the Jewish festival of Passover. It was during this meal that Jesus instituted the sacrament of the Eucharist, symbolizing his body and blood, which Christians believe to be present in the consecrated bread and wine.

The term “Maundy” is derived from the Latin word “mandatum,” meaning commandment. It refers to Jesus’ commandment to his disciples to love one another as he loved them. This act of humility and service is exemplified in the washing of the disciples’ feet by Jesus, a symbolic gesture of selfless love and humility.

Traditions and observances:

• Chrism Mass: In many Christian denominations, Holy Thursday begins with the Chrism Mass, during which the holy oils used in the sacraments are blessed by the bishop. These oils include the oil of catechumens, the oil of the sick, and the sacred chrism. The chrism is used in the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and ordination.
• Commemoration of the last supper: The central focus of Holy Thursday is the commemoration of the Last Supper. Many churches hold special liturgies and services in the evening, reenacting the events of the Last Supper and the washing of the disciples’ feet. The Eucharist, or Holy Communion, is also celebrated, emphasizing the significance of the sacrament instituted by Jesus during the Last Supper.
• Washing of the feet: One of the most poignant traditions of Holy Thursday is the washing of the feet ceremony, which symbolizes humility, service, and love. In some churches, clergy members wash the feet of parishioners, while in others, individuals may participate in washing one another’s feet as a gesture of solidarity and mutual respect.
• Eucharistic adoration: Following the liturgy of the Last Supper, many churches observe a period of Eucharistic adoration, during which the consecrated Host is displayed for veneration and prayer. This practice allows believers to reflect on the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist and to deepen their spiritual connection with him.
• Stripping of the Altar: Towards the end of the Holy Thursday liturgy, the altar is stripped bare, and all decorations are removed, symbolizing the desolation and abandonment experienced by Jesus during his arrest and crucifixion. This solemn ritual prepares the faithful for the solemnity of Good Friday.

Holy Thursday stands as a solemn and significant day in the Christian calendar, marking the beginning of the Easter Triduum and commemorating the Last Supper and the institution of the Eucharist. Through traditions such as the washing of the feet and the celebration of the Eucharist, believers are reminded of the profound love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, calling them to emulate his example of humility, service, and selfless love. As Christians gather to observe Holy Thursday, they are invited to reflect on the meaning of discipleship and to renew their commitment to following Christ’s commandment to love one another.