Today, Catholics around the world are observing Holy Thursday, a solemn and sacred day that marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum, the three holiest days of the Church year.
Also known as Maundy Thursday, this day commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples. During this meal, Jesus instituted the Eucharist and gave his commandment to love and serve one another—an act symbolized by the Washing of the Feet.
In Catholic churches, the evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper is central to Holy Thursday celebrations. This liturgy includes the washing of feet by the priest, a powerful sign of humility and service. After Mass, the Blessed Sacrament is removed from the tabernacle and taken to an altar of repose, where the faithful are invited to pray in quiet reflection—recalling Jesus’ agony in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Many Catholics also spend the evening in adoration, keeping vigil with Christ, just as his disciples were asked to “stay awake and pray” with Him before His arrest.
Holy Thursday sets the tone for Good Friday and Holy Saturday, leading to the joyful celebration of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday. It is a day rich in meaning, inviting Catholics to reflect on the call to love, serve, and remain faithful, even in the face of suffering.