The Catholic Defender: Holy Thursday of Holy Week

Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, is the fifth day of Holy Week and marks the transition from the season of Lent to the Paschal Triduum—the most solemn three days of the Christian year.

In 2026, it is observed on April 2.

Jesus shared a final meal with his apostles, which is recognized as the institution of the Eucharist (Holy Communion).

The washing of the feet, also known as the Mandatum, is a central rite performed on Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday) to commemorate Jesus washing the feet of his twelve disciples at the Last Supper.

Jesus washed the feet of his disciples as an act of humility and service, giving them a "new commandment" (mandatum) to love one another.

In Jesus' time, foot washing was a task for the lowest servants. By performing it himself, Jesus modeled servant leadership, showing that no one—even a master—is above serving others.

A priest (representing Christ) washes the feet of selected parishioners. In a recent shift, Pope Leo XIV washed the feet of 12 priests on Holy Thursday 2026, a return to tradition after Pope Francis’s focus on more diverse groups like prisoners and refugees.

 It symbolizes the ongoing need for repentance and spiritual washing through Christ.

Following the meal, Jesus retreated to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray in deep anguish before his arrest.

Jesus established the sacred office for his disciples.

Typically held on the morning of Holy Thursday, where the local bishop blesses the holy oils used for sacraments throughout the year.

 An evening service that often includes a ceremonial foot-washing and the stripping of the altar, where all ornaments are removed to symbolize Jesus' abandonment.

After Mass, the consecrated Eucharist is moved to a separate "altar of repose," and the faithful are invited to keep watch in silent prayer and adoration.

A popular tradition where pilgrims visit seven different local churches on this night to pray before each altar of repose.

In the UK, the Monarch distributes special "Maundy money" to senior citizens as a form of almsgiving.

The name "Maundy" comes from the Latin word mandatum, meaning "command" or "mandate". It refers to Jesus’ words in the Gospel of John: "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; even as I have loved you" (John 13:34).