MAUNDY Thursday marks one of the most important moments in Christianity, commemorating Jesus Christ’s Last Supper with His apostles.
The day also marks the start of the Triduum — the three sacred days that commemorate Christ’s passion, death and resurrection through various traditions. One of those traditions is the Washing of the Feet, where priests imitate Jesus by washing the feet of their disciples.
According to Luke 22:21, despite knowing Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus by selling Him for 30 pieces of silver, Jesus still welcomed him to His last supper, saying, “But behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table.”
In his homily at the Manila Cathedral, Fr. Viel Bautista emphasized that, even in the face of betrayal, Jesus underscored the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation.
“For Jesus, even those plotting to kill Him, even those in a little while will be leaving Him off when He suffered, even those who would deny Him, He still offers a table to dine and to be reconciled,” he said.
He added that Jesus’ actions reflect inclusivity, especially toward those who may feel distant from their faith.
“In the many ways we turn away from the Lord, He will continue, and He will endlessly offer a table for us,” Bautista said.
Ironically, for many Filipinos, the day also marks a time for family reunions, as it is observed as a regular holiday.
Bautista urged the faithful that as they see their families once again, they are reminded of the Last Supper and God’s unwavering love and desire to heal broken relationships.
“For the many times we have also planned, prepared and executed our betrayals and of us turning away from Jesus, He offers a table... where He will be there and will be able to say to us, ‘I welcome you, I forgive you and I wish to strengthen you,’” Bautista concluded.