Holy Thursday, also known as “Maundy Thursday,” marks the beginning of the Paschal Triduum and commemorates the Last Supper, where Christians believe Jesus Christ celebrated the first Eucharist and instituted the New Covenant. This year, Holy Thursday falls on March 28, 2024, and is observed by faithful worldwide. At the Last Supper, Jesus’ actions were seen as an act of love and self-giving, setting an example for others to follow. The heart of Christian life is centered around love, with Jesus giving himself entirely through Holy Communion, according to Fr. Paul Hedman, a parochial vicar in Minnesota.
St. Augustine’s words, “when we receive the Eucharist worthily we become what we receive,” resonate with the belief that receiving Jesus in the Eucharist transforms individuals to be more like Him, embodying love itself. The grace received through communion strengthens believers to show self-giving love to others, just as Jesus did. The call to give oneself entirely in service to others, reflecting Jesus’ sacrifice, is a central aspect of Christian faith. By imitating Christ’s love and selflessness, individuals are called to be more like Him and ultimately prepare for eternal life.
During the Last Supper, Jesus engaged in more than just celebrating the first Eucharist. The gospel reading during Catholic Mass on Holy Thursday, from the Gospel of John, focuses on Christ’s action of washing the feet of the twelve disciples, emphasizing the importance of service and humility. Through these actions, the call to love through total self-gift becomes clear, highlighting the example that Jesus set for His followers. The need to understand the entire picture of what happened that evening, including the washing of the feet, is emphasized by faith leaders to grasp the full significance of the event.
The act of Jesus washing the feet of the disciples during the Last Supper served as a profound example of humility and servanthood for His followers. Some churches continue this tradition by washing the feet of congregants during services on Holy Thursday, symbolizing the call to serve others selflessly. By receiving Holy Communion and following Christ’s commandments, individuals strive to conform more to Christ and embody love, preparing themselves for eternal life with the Blessed Trinity in heaven. Through these actions, believers are reminded of the ultimate sacrifice of love that Jesus made for humanity and are called to live out that same self-giving love towards others.
Holy Week, leading up to Easter Sunday, is a significant time for Christians worldwide to reflect on the various events and teachings of Jesus Christ, culminating in His resurrection. Through observances like Holy Thursday, believers are reminded of Jesus’ example of love and selflessness, calling them to emulate His actions in their own lives. The Last Supper serves as a powerful symbol of Christ’s sacrificial love, showing believers the importance of serving others and giving of themselves for the greater good. As Christians participate in the rituals and services of Holy Week, they are encouraged to deepen their understanding of Jesus’ teachings and strive to embody His love in their daily lives.
