Maundy Thursday observed with devotion, solemnity

Udupi: Christians in Udupi diocese observed Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday) to commemorate the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles.Apostolic administrator of Udupi diocese, Gerald Isaac Lobo, celebrated the mass at Milagres Cathedral in Kallianpur along with Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, rector of the cathedral and also vicar general of the diocese. Fr Pradeep Cardoza, assistant parish priest, and Sampada director Fr Reginald Pinto were present.In his message, the bishop spoke about Holy Thursday, reminding us that it is a symbol of the Lord's Supper, service and love. "Holy Thursday is not just a day of worship; it is a special moment to live and embrace human values. Just as Jesus served by washing the feet of his disciples, we too should cultivate a humble attitude in our daily lives, helping others with kindness," he added.Thereafter, the bishop washed the feet of laypersons, recalling the washing of the feet of 12 apostles by Jesus Christ. At the end of the mass, the Holy Eucharist was taken ceremoniously to the florally decorated Altar of Repose. The reverential transfer of the Holy Eucharist to the Altar of Repose was followed by the adoration.Maundy Thursday is followed by Good Friday, the day on which the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ is commemorated. The Way of the Cross to commemorate the Passion of Christ is one of the most important rituals of the Good Friday ceremonies at Catholic churches.In Thottam St Ann's Church, the Last Supper of Jesus Christ was observed in a special manner. As the current year is being observed as the ‘Year of the Poor' in the Udupi diocese, 12 special individuals from the Thottam parish were identified. Parish priest Rev Fr Denis D'Sa washed their feet, recalling the message of humility demonstrated by Jesus Christ.On the occasion, Church Pastoral Council vice-president Leslie Aroza, secretary Lavina Fernandes, coordinator of the 20 Commissions Shanthi Fernandes, local convent superior Sister Sushma and devotees were present.