Holy Thursday

Holy Thursday: A Day of Remembrance and Reflection

Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, is a significant day in the Christian calendar that commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles. It marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum, the three-day period leading up to Easter Sunday.

Quick Facts

When is it?: The Thursday before Easter Sunday
Tagged as: Christian holiday, Holy Week observance
What’s the hashtag?: #HolyThursday
When was it founded?: Originated in the early Christian Church
Who founded it?: Based on events in Jesus Christ’s life

History of Holy Thursday

Holy Thursday has its roots in the biblical account of Jesus’ last meal with his disciples before his crucifixion. During this Passover feast, Jesus instituted the Eucharist and washed the feet of his disciples, demonstrating humility and service.

Timeline

1st century: The Last Supper takes place
4th century: Celebration of Holy Thursday becomes widespread in the Church
7th century: Foot-washing ritual becomes part of the liturgy
1955: Pope Pius XII reforms the Holy Week liturgy, including Holy Thursday observances

Holy Thursday Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	April 17	Thursday
2026	April 2	Thursday
2027	March 25	Thursday
2028	April 13	Thursday
2029	March 29	Thursday
2030	April 18	Thursday

Observed Holy Thursday Traditions

Holy Thursday is observed with special liturgies and customs across various Christian denominations. The Mass of the Lord’s Supper is a central celebration, during which the priest may wash the feet of parishioners, reenacting Jesus’ act of service.

Many churches hold a Eucharistic procession and adoration following the evening Mass. The altar is stripped bare, and the Blessed Sacrament is removed from the main altar to a place of reposition.

In some countries, visiting seven churches on Holy Thursday night is a popular tradition, allowing the faithful to spend time in prayer and reflection.

Fun Facts About Holy Thursday

The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin “mandatum,” meaning commandment, referring to Jesus’ new commandment to love one another.
In England, the monarch traditionally distributes special “Maundy money” to elderly citizens on this day.
Some European countries consider Holy Thursday a public holiday.
The Chrism Mass, where holy oils are blessed, is typically celebrated on this day in Catholic dioceses.
In some traditions, church bells are silenced from Holy Thursday until Easter Sunday.

Quiz

What does the word “Maundy” mean?
Which sacrament did Jesus institute during the Last Supper?
How many churches are traditionally visited in the Seven Churches Visitation?
What color are the veils covering statues changed to on Holy Thursday?
In the UK, how many people receive Maundy money from the monarch?

(Answers: 1. Commandment 2. Eucharist 3. Seven 4. White 5. One man and one woman for each year of the monarch’s age)

FAQs

What is the significance of foot washing on Holy Thursday?
The foot-washing ritual symbolizes Jesus’ act of humble service and his call for his followers to serve one another.

Why is the altar stripped bare after the Holy Thursday Mass?
This action represents the stripping of Jesus’ garments before his crucifixion and the barrenness of his death.

Can Holy Thursday fall on a different day of the week?
No, Holy Thursday always falls on a Thursday, as it’s tied to the Easter date.

Is Holy Thursday a Holy Day of Obligation?
While not officially a Holy Day of Obligation, many Catholics attend Mass on this day due to its significance.

What happens to the Eucharist after the Holy Thursday Mass?
The Blessed Sacrament is transferred to a place of reposition, where the faithful can continue adoration.

Importance of Holy Thursday

Holy Thursday holds profound importance in Christian theology and practice. It commemorates the institution of the Eucharist, a central sacrament in many Christian denominations, symbolizing Christ’s body and blood.

The day also emphasizes the themes of service and humility, as exemplified by Jesus washing his disciples’ feet. This act continues to inspire Christians to serve others selflessly.

Furthermore, Holy Thursday marks the beginning of the Paschal Triduum, the most solemn period in the Christian calendar. It sets the stage for the events of Good Friday and ultimately, the joy of Easter Sunday, encapsulating the core narrative of Christian faith.