The events leading to Jesus Christ's death have been revered in the religion of Christianity as some of the most important and enlightening events. One of such events is the Maundy Thursday also known as Holy Thursday which is being celebrated this year on April 17th, 2025.
Meaning of Maundy Thursday
The term "Maundy" comes from the Latin word "mandatum" meaning command referring to Jesus' new commandment to love one another and spreads the message of humility and service by remembering Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. The day commemorates the Last Supper , the final Passover meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion.
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another" (John 13:34).
Maundy Thursday is observed with solemnity in churches worldwide with many holding special services. Many Christian traditions celebrate the Eucharist on this day in the memorial of Jesus' crucifixion and sacrifice.
History behind Maundy Thursday
The history of Maundy Thursday goes back to the first century AD when Jesus shared the Last Supper with his disciples. It was Jesus' last dinner before his crucifixion where he shared bread and wine with others. It was here that Jesus washed his disciples' feet, one of whom ended up betraying him the same night and selling him out to the Romans.
To commemorate the day, people follow various traditions such as the washing of feet, stripping of altars and sharing a special meal.
In the UK, Maundy money is distributed which is a tradition that goes back to 600AD. The Queen distributes the "special coins" to the needy in the number of years she has lived. These coins have had the same form since 1670. This year, King Charles handed the specially minted coins to 76 men and women, the same number as his age, to thank them for their service to the local community and charity.
Maundy Thursday, serves as a reminder of the importance of the act of service just like Jesus Christ commanded during his time on Earth. It is a day of reflection, togetherness and religiosity.
Meaning of Maundy Thursday
The term "Maundy" comes from the Latin word "mandatum" meaning command referring to Jesus' new commandment to love one another and spreads the message of humility and service by remembering Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. The day commemorates the Last Supper , the final Passover meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion.
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another" (John 13:34).
Maundy Thursday is observed with solemnity in churches worldwide with many holding special services. Many Christian traditions celebrate the Eucharist on this day in the memorial of Jesus' crucifixion and sacrifice.
History behind Maundy Thursday
The history of Maundy Thursday goes back to the first century AD when Jesus shared the Last Supper with his disciples. It was Jesus' last dinner before his crucifixion where he shared bread and wine with others. It was here that Jesus washed his disciples' feet, one of whom ended up betraying him the same night and selling him out to the Romans.
To commemorate the day, people follow various traditions such as the washing of feet, stripping of altars and sharing a special meal.
In the UK, Maundy money is distributed which is a tradition that goes back to 600AD. The Queen distributes the "special coins" to the needy in the number of years she has lived. These coins have had the same form since 1670. This year, King Charles handed the specially minted coins to 76 men and women, the same number as his age, to thank them for their service to the local community and charity.
Maundy Thursday, serves as a reminder of the importance of the act of service just like Jesus Christ commanded during his time on Earth. It is a day of reflection, togetherness and religiosity.
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