Maundy Thursday

Maundy Thursday

In the Christian calendar, Maundy Thursday, Sheer Thursday, or Holy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter. It celebrates Jesus's last supper before his execution. Traditionally, it is the day when Jesus washed the feet of his disciples and told them to serve others as he served them. Consequently, in many churches, both Protestant and Roman Catholic, the priest or pastor washes the feet of his congregants on this day.

Names for the day

The Middle English word Maundy, used only in this context, derives from Old French mand� from Latin mandamentum (commandment), in reference to the opening words of the Catholic liturgy for this day, Mandatum novum do vobis "a new commandment I give unto you" (John xiii:34), words spoken by Jesus to the Apostles after washing their feet in preparation for the Last Supper.

The day has also been known as Sheer Thursday, due to the idea that it is the day of cleaning (schere) and because the churches themselves would switch liturgical colors from the dark tones of Lent.

Outside English-speaking countries it is universally known as Holy Thursday.

See also: Maundy money