What is Maundy Thursday?
Maundy Thursday is a Christian holiday that falls on the Thursday of Easter week. It is a significant day especially in the Catholic, Orthodox and Lutheran churches. Maundy Thursday is the day when we remember Jesus’ last supper with his disciples before his crucifixion.
The meaning of Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday is part of Easter week, which is the most important celebration time in Christianity. Easter week starts on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday. Maundy Thursday is special because it begins the so-called “holy three-day” or triduum, which continues through Good Friday and Easter Saturday until Easter Sunday.
Biblical background
The events of Maundy Thursday are based on the New Testament accounts of Jesus’ Last Supper. The Lord’s Supper was held in connection with the Jewish Passover meal, and during it Jesus instituted the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, a central part of Christian worship. Jesus distributed bread and wine to his disciples and said: “This is my body” and “This is my blood”.
Maundy Thursday celebration
Maundy Thursday includes many traditions and rituals that vary by denomination. Common ways are:
- Communion mass: In many churches, a special communion mass is held, where the congregation participates in communion according to the example of Jesus.
- Washing of feet: In some churches, feet are washed, which symbolizes Jesus’ humility and willingness to serve when he washed the feet of his disciples.
- Undressing the altar: At the end of the Mass, the altar is stripped of all decorations and covered, which symbolizes the suffering and death of Jesus.
Maundy Thursday in Finland
In Finland, Maundy Thursday is a significant day, especially in the Lutheran Church. In many parishes, communion masses and other moments of devotion are organized. Maundy Thursday is not an official holiday, but it is still an important part of celebrating Easter for many Finns.
Sources
You can read more information about Maundy Thursday from the following sources:
