Maundy Thursday 2026: Christians worldwide commemorate Last Supper and Washing of Feet today

Commemorating the Last Supper of Jesus Christ, the Christian faithful observe Maundy Thursday on April 2. Special services, including the Holy Mass of the Lord’s Supper and the ritual of the Washing of the Feet, will be held in churches on Thursday evening.

The observance marks the night before the crucifixion when Jesus shared a final meal with his twelve disciples and instituted the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. The word ‘Pesaha’ signifies "passing over”, referring to the liberation of the people of Israel from slavery under the Egyptian Pharaoh under the leadership of the prophet Moses.

During the Last Supper, Jesus set an example of humility, teaching that "the greatest among you must be the servant of all" by washing the feet of his disciples. Following this tradition, priests in all churches will perform the ‘Mandatum’ (Washing of the Feet) for 12 selected individuals.

Maundy Thursday is the fifth day of Holy Week, which began on Palm Sunday, and falls within the final week of the 50-day Great Lent.

Special liturgical services, commemorations of the institution of the priesthood, and the washing of the feet will be led by various denominations, including Latin, Syro-Malabar, Malankara Catholic, Knanaya, Orthodox and Jacobite Churches. Good Friday will be observed on April 3 to commemorate the crucifixion of Christ on Mount Calvary. The services on Good Friday focus on the passion, death and burial of Jesus. The Great Lent will conclude on Sunday with the celebration of Easter, marking the Resurrection of Christ on the third day.