Mangalore: Maundy Thursday observed with great devotion

Pics by John V Tauro
Bellevision Media Network

Mangalore, 17 Apr 2014: Maundy Thursday, one among the most important days of the Holy Week, was observed with devotion across parishes here on April 17.

The Eucharistic Mass was offered by Bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza at Rosario Cathedral in the evening along with parish priest and other priests.

Bishop Dr Aloysius explained the significance of Maundy Thursday and urged the devotees to follow in the path of Jesus Christ and serve and sacrifice for others.

 

 

St. Sabestaian Church, Bendore

 

The Holy Mass was observed symbolically by the priests by breaking bread and sharing it among the altar boys.

The ritual of washing the feet of the disciples by the Bishop and the priests was also observed. This gesture denotes humility and is based on the practice of Jesus Christ washing the apostles’ feet.

Maundy Thursday signifies the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with the Apostles. The day is followed by Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday denoting Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus.

Devotees were present in large numbers in all the churches.

 

 

St. Francis Xavier Church, Bejai

 By Alphonse Mendonsa

Maundy Thursday observed with great devotion at St. Francis Xavier Church Bejai.  A large number of parishioners attended this solemn ceremony which began 6:30pm.

The Eucharistic Mass was offered by Rev. Fr. Michael – Principal of Lourdes School concelebrated with Rev. Fr. Victor Machado (Parish Priest), Rev. Fr. Richard and Rev. Fr. Sunil. 

Fr. Michael explained in brief the significance of Maundy Thursday and explained how Jesus created a bond between him and us for the salvation of those followed Him.  In his homily he said it was a tough decision for Jesus to go through the suffering and crucifixion but he had to go through it and finish it for our sins to be forgiven and create a permanent bond between us and God Almighty.