Liturgy begins at 6:00 p.m.
The Maundy Thursday Eucharist commemorates the institution of the Sacrament of Holy Communion and Christ’s giving of the new commandment to love one another as he loved us. Although we are on the threshold of Good Friday, the Eucharist is celebrated with solemn joy. The celebrant begins and those present may follow in the sharing of the washing of feet as Jesus mandated. This is an expressive symbol of the coming of God’s Kingdom through the ministry and service of his followers who are nourished by the heavenly food of his banquet table.
The Altar of Repose reminds us of the Garden of Gethsemane, in which Jesus spent three agonizing hours between the Last Supper and his arrest. Additional bread and wine is consecrated at this Eucharist. This reserved sacrament is placed on the altar where it will remain until the Good Friday liturgy.
The Maundy Thursday Prayer Watch begins at the conclusion of the liturgy and continues throughout the night until Good Friday morning. Parishioners are encouraged to join in the Prayer Watch by signing up for a time slot, either an hour or half hour. The church remains open and parishioners are asked to keep the light burning while praying and/or meditating in the church. Jesus asked his disciples, “Could you not watch with me one hour?” What is our reply?
