I give you a new commandment: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, so must you also love one another.” — John 13:34.

St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, observed Maundy Thursday with deep devotion and solemnity on April 17, 2025—a day that commemorates Jesus’ supreme act of love, the institution of the Holy Eucharist, and the gift of Priesthood. The sacred celebration began at 6:30 p.m. in the church premises, drawing a large gathering of the faithful.

On this holy night, the Church remembered how Christ reconciled humanity with the Father—through the breaking of His Body, the washing of His disciples’ feet, and the shedding of His Precious Blood. In the humble act of foot-washing, priests mirrored Christ’s servant heart, symbolically ministering to men, women, and children who stood in for the faithful.

This sacred gesture served as a call for all to embrace a life of love, humility, and selfless service, just as our Lord exemplified.

The main celebrant of the Holy Eucharist was Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, the Parish Priest. He was joined by Rev. Fr William D’Souza (Assistant Parish Priest), Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves (Principal, St. Lawrence English Medium School), Rev. Fr Ravi Kumar MSIJ, Rev. Fr Ivan Cordeiro, Rev. Fr Theo Pinto, Rev. Fr Vipin, and Rev. Fr Pascal (Betharam) as concelebrants.

In his homily, Fr. Andrew Leo D’Souza beautifully broke the Word of God, inviting the faithful to reflect on three profound mysteries of Maundy Thursday: 1. Jesus Washing the Feet of His Apostles A powerful act of humility that teaches us the essence of Christian discipleship: to serve one another in love. True greatness lies in becoming the servant of all. 2. The Institution of the Holy Eucharist Jesus offered His Body and Blood, establishing an everlasting covenant of love. The Eucharist remains the source and summit of our Christian life. 3. The Celebration of Priesthood On this sacred night, Christ instituted the priesthood to carry on His mission. Priests are chosen vessels called to serve and shepherd God’s people.

Continuing the rich tradition of the Church, Rev. Fr William D’Souza, Assistant Parish Priest, washed the feet of twelve chosen parishioners, symbolizing Christ’s act of humility and service.

Following the Mass, the Blessed Sacrament was reverently carried in procession to the Altar of Repose, accompanied by Priests and Altar servers. A silent and prayerful Adoration was then led by Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, inviting the faithful to remain in the presence of the Lord in quiet contemplation.

The entire celebration was uplifted by the soulful music of the Church choir, which added depth and solemnity to the liturgy. At the conclusion of the service, Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Altar Servers, volunteers, the Liturgy Committee, Choir members, and PPC members for their committed service.

The significance of Maundy Thursday and its deep spiritual meaning were beautifully highlighted by Mrs. Olivia D’Sa, enriching the faithful’s understanding of this sacred day.

Photography : Aston Rego ,

Report: Meena Serrao Barboza

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