Maundy Thursday: Christ Continues ON

Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, is a day of profound religious significance within the Christian faith, marking the commemoration of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples. This event is pivotal as it established the sacrament of Holy Communion, which is central to Christian worship and signifies the institution of the Eucharist as the true body and blood of Jesus Christ.

The Last Supper, which took place on the eve of Jesus' crucifixion, is not only remembered for the act of breaking bread and sharing wine but also for Jesus' demonstration of humility and service, washing the feet of his apostles. This act prefigures the sacrificial nature of the priesthood, highlighting the role of priests as servants and shepherds to their congregations.

The priesthood in Christianity carries the responsibility of perpetuating the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, which is considered the source and summit of Christian life. Priests are seen as representatives of Christ, acting in persona Christi, to continue his ministry on Earth. The importance of the priesthood is deeply rooted in the belief that through the hands of the priest, the very presence of Jesus Christ is mediated to the faithful.

The Eucharist itself holds a special place in Christian theology. It is not merely a symbol but is believed to be the actual presence of Christ, a concept known as transubstantiation. During the Eucharist, bread and wine are consecrated and become the Body and Blood of Christ, a mystery that signifies unity with Christ and the anticipation of eternal life.

In essence, Holy Thursday, the Last Supper, the priesthood, and the Eucharist are intricately interwoven into the fabric of Christian faith, each element reinforcing the other and together forming the cornerstone of Christian worship and belief. The observance of these traditions serves as a continuous reminder of Jesus' sacrifice, his message of service, and the enduring hope of salvation for believers.

Jesus continues on via the priesthood and Holy Eucharist. He is with us until the end of time as He promised. Jesus is truly present in the Holy Eucharist under the appearance of bread and wine. The accidents of bread and wine remain the same while the essence transubstantiates into Jesus' true presence. Jesus is also present in the person of the male priest. The priest is NOT Jesus, he represents Him. Jesus is the one acting via the male priest.  

During this Holy Thursday focus on the Mass and the readings regarding the Last Supper. See how much Jesus loves us that He remains with us in the Holy Eucharist and left us His priesthood.