Maundy Thursday

On Maundy Thursday, we commemorate the Last Supper. It was during this evening that some of the core principles in our faith were born. The evening began with Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. When this was done, he shared with them the “Mandatum Novum” saying, “ I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.” John 13:34 
 
At supper, Jesus broke bread with his disciples, initiating what is now our Holy Eucharist.  

And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 20 And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” 

Luke 22:18-20 

After dinner, Jesus was then betrayed by one of his disciples, Judas, who turned him in to the Sanhedrin authorities in the Garden of Gethsemane in exchange for 30 silver coins. This was predicted in a prophecy.  

Across the diocese, Maundy Thursday services may include the washing of the feet, stripping of the altar, and dimmed lights in preparation for Good Friday.