Maundy Thursday

Today is Maundy Thursday. In this day, the Church celebrates the institution of both the Holy Eucharist and of the Priesthood by Jesus Christ Himself. The Eucharist, in the words of our Holy Founder St. Ignatius, is the "greatest proof of Christ's Love (Sp. Ex. 289)." It is the fulfillment of Jesus' promise in the Gospel that He will be with us till the end of times (Mt. 28: 20). Jesus is indeed present in our very midst through this most Blessed Sacrament.

Likewise, the Priesthood was established by Jesus on this night before he died. He washed his disciples' feet and told them "I have given you an example, that you also should do what I have done." (John 13: 15). In our Liturgy this evening, we will once again recall Jesus' wonderful act of service, the washing of the feet. The priesthood then is an office that of service. It is never of power and dominions. It is never of futile authority. The priesthood is for the people.

Let us pray then for ourselves and for our priests on this solemn day. May we truly be "Eucharist" for others -- taken, blessed, broken, and given for the life of others, and may we imbibe the spirit of the "Priesthood" -- prayer and selfless service to one another. Amen.

Have a grace - filled Maundy Thursday.