The ceremonial practice, known as Communion, Mass or Eucharist, is recognised in the Christian service and involves consecrated bread and wine being distributed to participants in the Catholic mass and in other Christian churches.įollowing the supper, Jesus and his followers are believed to have headed to the nearby garden of Gethsemane to pray.

However, it is not explicitly stated that the meal was a traditional Jewish Passover Seder.ĭuring the Last Supper, it is said Jesus fed his followers bread, which was representative of his body, and wine, which was representative of his blood. Some believe the Last Supper may have been a Passover meal, due to the inclusion of wine and unleavened bread. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34.

The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin word “mandatum” meaning “command”.Īccording to Christian scripture, Jesus told his followers: 'A new command I give you: Love one another.

Jesus is believed to have washed the disciples' feet before the meal in order to demonstrate the importance of serving others. On Maundy Thursday, Christians commemorate the day on which Jesus Christ shared the Last Supper with his 12 apostles, prior to his crucifixion. It is followed by Good Friday (7 April), Holy Saturday (8 April) and Easter Day (9 April), otherwise known as Easter Sunday.Įaster Monday takes place on 10 April, which commemorates Jesus Christ's resurrection, according to Christian belief. The day is also recognised by names including Holy Thursday, Covenant Thursday, Great and Holy Thursday and Thursday of Mysteries. This year, Maundy Thursday takes place on Thursday 6 April.

Maundy Thursday falls on the fifth day of Holy Week, which commences this year on Palm Sunday. Here’s everything you need to know about Maundy Thursday: When is it?

What is the meaning of it