What is Maundy Thursday?
Quick answer
Maundy Thursday is the day in Holy Week commemorating Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples — including his washing their feet and his "new commandment" (Latin: mandatum, hence "Maundy") to love one another as he has loved them.
Many churches celebrate it with communion, foot-washing, and Tenebrae services that move toward the darkness of the cross.
The night included the institution of the Lord’s Supper, the betrayal by Judas, and the agony in Gethsemane — a fully-loaded final evening.
It begins the Triduum — the three holy days of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter — the spiritual heart of the Christian year.
Related
Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.