Pieter Pourbus, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Holy Thursday around the world



Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday, is a significant day in the Christian calendar. It falls on the Thursday before Easter Sunday and commemorates the last supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples before his crucifixion. The day is observed by many Christian denominations with various rituals and traditions.

The name "Maundy" comes from the Latin word mandatum, which means "commandment." This refers to the commandment given by Jesus to his disciples at the Last Supper, to love one another as he had loved them. The day is also known as Holy Thursday because it commemorates the sacred events that occurred on the evening before Jesus was crucified.

One of the most important rituals of Maundy Thursday is the washing of the feet, which symbolizes Jesus' act of humility and service towards his disciples. Many churches perform this ceremony during their Maundy Thursday services, where a priest or minister washes the feet of members of the congregation or community. This ritual reminds Christians of the importance of serving others last suppand following Jesus' example of selflessness.

Another significant event that took place on Maundy Thursday was the institution of the Eucharist or Holy Communion. During the Last Supper, Jesus broke bread and shared wine with his disciples, instructing them to do the same in remembrance of him. Many churches hold a special communion service on Maundy Thursday, where members of the congregation partake in the Eucharist and reflect on its significance.

In some Christian traditions, Maundy Thursday is also a day of fasting and penance. This is a way for Christians to prepare themselves spiritually for the upcoming Easter celebration. Some churches hold all-night prayer vigils or services, where members of the congregation can reflect on the meaning of the day and pray for guidance and strength.

Maundy Thursday is a day of solemn reflection and contemplation for Christians around the world. It serves as a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and love for humanity, and the importance of serving others and following his teachings. Whether through foot-washing ceremonies, communion services, or prayer vigils, Christians observe this day in various ways, but the message remains the same: to love one another as Jesus loved us.



2024

Date
Country
Thu 28 Mar
Peru
Thu 28 Mar
Colombia
Thu 28 Mar
Denmark
Thu 28 Mar
Guatemala
Thu 28 Mar
Norway
Thu 28 Mar
Paraguay
Thu 28 Mar
Philippines
Thu 28 Mar
Venezuela

2025

Date
Country
Thu 17 Apr
Peru
Thu 17 Apr
Colombia
Thu 17 Apr
Denmark
Thu 17 Apr
Guatemala
Thu 17 Apr
Norway
Thu 17 Apr
Paraguay
Thu 17 Apr
Philippines
Thu 17 Apr
Venezuela

2026

Date
Country
Thu 02 Apr
Peru
Thu 02 Apr
Colombia
Thu 02 Apr
Denmark
Thu 02 Apr
Guatemala
Thu 02 Apr
Norway
Thu 02 Apr
Paraguay
Thu 02 Apr
Philippines
Thu 02 Apr
Venezuela

2027

Date
Country
Thu 25 Mar
Peru
Thu 25 Mar
Colombia
Thu 25 Mar
Denmark
Thu 25 Mar
Guatemala
Thu 25 Mar
Norway
Thu 25 Mar
Paraguay
Thu 25 Mar
Philippines
Thu 25 Mar
Venezuela