By Santhiya Philomone csc –
Readings: Ex 12: 1-8, 11-14; 1 Cor 11: 23-26; Jn 13: 1-15
As Holy Thursday leads us into the Easter Triduum, we are invited into a sacred time of reflection and commemoration of the central mysteries of our faith: the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The readings for this solemnity invite us to journey deeper into these mysteries, drawing us into the heart of Christ’s love and sacrifice.
In the first reading, we are taken back to the time of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. The instructions for the Passover meal are given, marking the beginning of their liberation from bondage. This symbolic meal, with its lamb’s blood as a sign of protection, prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, the true Paschal Lamb, whose blood redeems us from sin and death.
The second reading recounts the words of Jesus at the Last Supper, where he instituted the Eucharist. As we partake of the bread and wine, we are reminded of Christ’s body broken and blood shed for us, a continual memorial of his sacrificial love. This sacramental meal unites us with Christ and with one another, forming us into the mystical body of Christ.
The Gospel takes us to the heart of the Last Supper, where Jesus performs the act of washing the disciples’ feet. In this humble gesture, Jesus exemplifies the true meaning of servant leadership, inviting us to follow his example of love and service. As he kneels before his disciples, he teaches us that true greatness lies in humility and selflessness, in serving others with love and compassion.
As we enter the Easter Triduum, may we journey with Christ through his passion, death, and resurrection, allowing these sacred mysteries to transform our hearts and lives. May we be renewed in our commitment to live as disciples of Christ, bearing witness to his love and mercy in the world.
Frankly speaking Jesus’ way of life that is `Servant Leadership’ is not practised by most in the Catholic Church hierarchy. Instead of serving the laity, especially the weak and marginalised, they want to be saluted and served. Most parish priests and bishops smack of sheer arrogance.
This is evident even in the washing of the feet. Despite Pope Francis leading the way by washing the feet of women, many parishes only wash the feet of men. They consider it below their dignity to wash the feet of women, especially those from the grassroots.