Utzurrum: ‘Mandatum,’ Jesus gives a new commandment

Today, as in many liturgical years past, we celebrate Maundy Thursday — also known as Holy Thursday — the day before Easter that commemorates the institution of the Holy Eucharist. The name “Maundy” comes from the Latin anthem sung in Catholic churches on this day: Mandatum novum do vobis (“A new commandment I give to you”).The institution of the Holy Eucharist -- Jesus turns bread and wine into His body and blood.

Maundy Thursday is also remembered for the Last Supper, wherein Jesus broke bread, saying, “This is my body,” and poured wine, saying, “This is my blood.” He then asked His apostles, “Do this in remembrance of me.”The Last Supper is likewise rooted in Jesus’ Jewish heritage.



It was a Passover Seder, the feast of unleavened bread. This Jewish festival marks the Exodus of the Jews from Egypt — during which they had to eat unleavened bread because they left in such haste, there was no time for the bread to rise.The Last Supper of Our Redeemer, with His 12 disciplesHowever, the Last Supper also casts a somber shadow.

Jesus foretells His death, saying He will eat no more until the Kingdom of God is fulfilled. He also speaks of betrayal, saying, “One of you will betray me.” He identifies Judas Iscariot, one of the 12 disciples, as the guilty one.

Judas, indeed, would receive 30 pieces of silver for what would become the kiss of death.The spiritual tradition of visiting seven churches on Holy Thursday is a public holiday in many countries formerly part of the Spanish Empire — among them Argentina, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras and, of course, the Philippines. Here, it is called Visita Iglesia (Spanish for “church visit”).

The ultimate sacrifice of love -- Jesus’ Crucifixion on Mount Golgotha.Utzurrum: ‘Mandatum,’ Jesus gives a new commandmentThe original purpose of this ritual was to venerate the Blessed Sacrament in the Altar of Repose, in the evening of Holy Thursday. During these visits, the Stations of the Cross are prayed.

In some churches, the faithful recite seven repetitions of the Lord’s Prayer, Hail Mary and Glory Be.The traditional Washing of the Feet, a promise of absolute humility. Jesus performing this task on His apostles.

Tomorrow, we take on a more somber expression: Good Friday — the day Jesus Christ suffered immense pain and bore the weight of His Cross to Calvary. This sublime act of Crucifixion was His excruciating yet redemptive effort to deliver His people from the wrath of Hell.And finally, on Easter Sunday, we joyously commemorate His Resurrection.

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