Maundy Thursday ~ the Triduum

Maundy Thursday ~ the Triduum

Maundy Thursday, or Holy Thursday, is a feast day the Thursday before Easter (the day before Good Friday). The Mass of the Lord’s Supper begins the Triduum, referring to the three days from Good Friday to Easter Sunday which celebrate the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

The Triduum is observed by many denominations of the Christian church, including the Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Anglican/Episcopal, Presbyterian, Lutheran, Mennonite, Methodist, and other Protestant denominations. In many traditions, the season of Lent officially ends after morning Mass on Holy Thursday.

The word “Maundy” is believed to come from Old English by way of Old French and Latin. The maund was a small basket held by the poor to receive alms given  by the nobility prior to their attending the Mass on Holy Thursday.

For Scriptures and meditations along with musical accompaniment, visit these meditations on the Triduum (Roman Catholic).

Tags: Easter, Lent, Maundy Thursday