Addis Ababa, April 17, 2025 (FMC) — The Christian faithful across Ethiopia have marked today the Holy Thursday to commemorate Jesus’ act of humility and the significance of the Last Supper.
Holy Thursday, often referred to as Maundy Thursday, is a pivotal day in the Christian calendar.
It marks the occasion of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ, during which he instituted the sacrament of Holy Communion just prior to his arrest and crucifixion.
This sacred day, occurring on the Thursday preceding Easter, signifies the commencement of the Sacred Triduum and serves as a crucial moment in Holy Week.
During this significant meal, Jesus, while partaking in the Passover celebration, symbolically embodies his role as the Christian Passover lamb, presenting himself as the ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s salvation.
The Last Supper, which he shared with his disciples in Jerusalem, also features Jesus foretelling his betrayal, which enhances the gravity of the event.
A key aspect of Holy Thursday observance is the ritual reenactment of the Last Supper during Mass, with a particular focus on the establishment of the priesthood by Jesus.
He sets apart his disciples, washing their feet as a symbolic act of humility and service, thereby inaugurating the ordained priesthood within the Christian Community.
According to Christian scripture, Jesus told his followers: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church and Ethiopian Catholic Church have marked the event colorfully in the presence of holy fathers and the faithful of respective churches.
Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Abune Mathias, bishops and priests performed the ritual by washing the feet of the devotees presented at the cathedral demonstrating how Jesus Christ humbled himself by washing the feet of his disciples, teaching them humility and love.
Abune Mathias also gave a sermon and provided a blessing as part of the commemoration day ceremonies.
Archbishop of the Ethiopian Catholic Church, Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew, has exemplified the sacred deeds of Jesus Christ by performing the act of washing the feet of the faithful.
The holy fathers have also called the faithful to learn from the sacred deeds of Jesus Christ to love and respect one another.