Patna Churches Commemorate Maundy Thursday with Reverent Observances
Churches throughout Patna organized special prayer services and Holy Communion ceremonies on Thursday to solemnly observe Maundy Thursday, marking a significant preparatory phase for the upcoming Good Friday commemorations. In accordance with long-standing traditional rituals, priests across various parishes conducted the symbolic foot-washing ceremony, directly commemorating the Last Supper that Lord Jesus Christ shared with his twelve disciples prior to his crucifixion.
Devotional Gatherings and Spiritual Reflections
Hundreds of devoted followers congregated for the evening Mass services, creating an atmosphere of deep spiritual reflection. During these services, priests recited biblical verses that describe Jesus instituting the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist during the Last Supper, reinforcing the theological foundations of this sacred observance.
On the eve of Good Friday, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar publicly remembered the ultimate sacrifice of Lord Jesus Christ and paid heartfelt homage to him. The Chief Minister emphasized that through his life and sacrifice, Lord Jesus Christ delivered a powerful message of love, kindness, and compassion to all humanity. CM Kumar further noted that in the current global environment, the teachings of Lord Jesus Christ have gained even greater relevance and significance.
"Following his divine path can genuinely pave the way for the comprehensive welfare of all human society," the Chief Minister stated in an official communique, highlighting the universal applicability of these spiritual principles.
Queen of Apostles Church Observance
The feast of the Last Supper was observed with profound reverence at Queen of Apostles Church in Kurji. A Holy Mass was celebrated with Father Prakash SJ serving as the main celebrant, while parish priest Father Selvin Xavier SJ and additional priests concelebrated the Mass. Following the formal service, Eucharistic Adoration continued until late night, with numerous devotees actively participating in these sacred rituals.
In his homily, Father Selvin emphasized the deep spiritual significance of Maundy Thursday, describing it as a powerful reminder of love, service, and humility. He explained that the foot-washing ritual performed by Jesus Christ for his disciples conveys an enduring, timeless message—that authentic leadership fundamentally resides in selfless service to others.
The priest urged the faithful congregation to actively practice humility, compassion, and sacrifice, particularly toward the poor and marginalized members of society. He added that in today's often self-centered world, foot washing represents not merely a ritualistic practice but a meaningful way of life that should guide daily interactions.
Theological Significance and Priestly Role
Father Selvin further elaborated on the profound importance of the Holy Eucharist as a living presence of Christ that spiritually strengthens believers while promoting unity, love, and sacrifice among the community. He stressed the essential role of the priesthood in connecting people to God's divine grace through the administration of sacraments, serving as spiritual bridges between the divine and human realms.
Padri Ki Haveli Ceremony
The foot-washing ceremony was also performed at Padri Ki Haveli in Patna City during their special service, where twelve individuals were thoughtfully selected to participate in this symbolic ritual. Parish priest Joachim Ekka OFM Cap explained that Jesus Christ taught his followers that every person—regardless of wealth, poverty, or social status—should be treated with equal dignity and respect.
"To tangibly demonstrate this fundamental principle, he humbly washed the feet of his twelve disciples," Father Joachim stated, highlighting the practical embodiment of this spiritual teaching.
In his extended message, the priest emphasized that this teaching of humility and service extends beyond the Christian community alone. "People representing all religions across the world regard Lord Jesus Christ as a spiritual Guru and hold his teachings in the highest esteem," Father Joachim noted.
He continued: "On this sacred day, Jesus gave humanity the greatest possible example of love by demonstrating that even a spiritual master, by consciously setting aside ego and treating his servants as equals, can genuinely win hearts and become a unique, enduring symbol of love and universal brotherhood throughout the world."
Devotee Participation
The services witnessed participation from numerous devotees including Pooja Patrick, Victor Alfons, George Peter, Richard Ranjan, Edward Alfons, Albert Michael, Sisters from Mata Sahayika, Sisters of Mother Teresa, and many other committed followers who gathered to observe these meaningful Maundy Thursday traditions.
