The word “Maundy” is from the Latin word for “command”: This night we recall Christ’s command to do what he did at the last supper: He washed the feet of his disciples, as a sign of service. If we wash feet in our liturgy it is not as play-acting or as a welcome diversion from the praying: It is a sign that we want, and are beginning, to serve all our brothers and sisters just as Christ himself did.
The second part of our celebration this night is “Eucharist”, thanksgiving. We remember that Jesus gave us bread and wine to be his Body and Blood this day. Strangely enough, the washing of the feet and the breaking of bread are inseparably linked. Only if we agree to serve each other can we share communion. Attending the Mass of the Lord’s Supper is an invitation to be nourished by the food of life. But it also involves a commitment to become part of a community that grows by loving.
The Mass of Our Lord’s Supper: 7.30 pm
Watching with Christ in the Place of Repose, in the Hall: 8.30 pm – 11.45 pm
Compline (Night prayer of the church): 11.45pm
