Holy Thursday

Thursday night of Holy Week sees the memorial of the Last Supper of Jesus with his disciples. One of the most moving parts of this liturgy is the foot washing. Twelve men-representing the twelve apostles–bare their feet for the priest to wash them.

The Institution of the Eucharist

In addition to the Foot Washing, Holy Thursday commemorates Christ establishing the Holy Eucharist. After Mass, the sacrament is carried in procession to the Lower Church which represents the Garden of Gethsemane. An altar of repose, decorated with flowers and candles is venerated and a watch of adoration is kept until midnight.

Reverent Worship

Down in adoration falling,

Lo! the sacred Host we hail,

Lo! o’er ancient forms departing

Newer rites of grace prevail;

Faith for all defects supplying,

Where the feeble senses fail.