Mass of the Lord's Supper at 7 PM, followed by Altar of Repose until midnight

Holy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper, when Jesus consecrated bread and wine. The Mass recounts the establishment of the Jewish feast of Passover; and it commemorates the institution of the Eucharist, the institution of the priesthood, and the footwashing. John’s placement of the footwashing where the other evangelists place the Last Supper conveys his belief that the real presence of Christ is found not only in the Eucharist but in service. Jesus gave us his mandatum or mandate:  “You ought to wash one another’s feet. I have given you an example. As I have done, so you should also do” (Jn 13:14,15). Jesus is made present when disciples put aside their prideful aspirations, humble themselves, and serve one another, even to the point of doing a menial task joyfully.

Smells and Bells: at St. Michael, notice:

• the priest washing the feet of chosen parishioners with humility
• the Eucharist being removed from the sanctuary and taken to the "altar of repose" which resembles the Garden of Gethsemane
• The Night Watch: the faithful are encouraged to "keep watch and pray" with Jesus at the altar of repose until midnight