The Last Supper of Jesus Christ—where He instituted the Eucharist, exemplified humility through the washing of feet, and gave His disciples a new commandment of love—set the foundation for His Passion, Death, and Resurrection

St. Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, solemnly celebrated Maundy Thursday on April 2, 2026, with profound devotion and reverence—a day that commemorates Jesus’ supreme act of love, the institution of the Holy Eucharist, and the gift of the Priesthood. The sacred liturgy began at 6:30 p.m., drawing a large gathering of the faithful to the church premises.

On this holy night, the Church remembered Christ’s boundless love that reconciled humanity with the Father. In the breaking of the Bread and the pouring of the Cup, His sacrifice was made present once again.

In the gentle washing of feet, His humility spoke louder than words. Priests, reflecting the heart of Christ the Servant, knelt in love and service—reminding all that true greatness lies in humility. This sacred moment became a call to every heart: to love without measure, to serve without pride, and to walk in the path of Christ with faith and surrender.

The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St. Lawrence English Medium School. The concelebrants included Rev.Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Anil Fernandes; Rev. Fr Ravi Kumar, MSIJ; Rev. Fr Biju Paul; and Rev. Fr Alwyn Crasta (Bethraam)..

In his homily, Rev. Fr Peter reflected on the three significances of Maundy Thursday. He spoke about the institution of the Holy Eucharist, where Jesus offers Himself as the Living Bread, nourishing and uniting us in love. He highlighted the new commandment of love through the washing of the feet, where Jesus, in deep humility, taught that true greatness lies in selfless service. The simple towel became a symbol of silent love—calling us to heal, comfort, and serve others. He also reflected on the gift of the Priesthood, reminding the faithful to respect, support, and pray for priests, who continue Christ’s mission. He concluded with a heartfelt call: “Are we ready to be that towel in the hands of Jesus?”—to wipe tears, heal wounds, and bring love into our families with humility and grace

2026: The Year of Children — the twelve apostles were beautifully represented by children of our parish. Continuing the rich tradition of the Church, Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest, humbly washed the feet of the twelve chosen children, symbolising Christ’s love, humility, and selfless service. He also draped them with a shawl, expressing care, dignity, and the Church’s special love and blessing upon every child.

At the conclusion of the celebration, Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza delivered the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers, choir members, the Liturgy Committee, Altar Servers, and PPC members for their dedicated service.

A silent and prayerful Adoration was then led by Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, inviting the faithful to remain in the presence of the Lord—reflecting on His sacrifice and sharing in His suffering.

The Holy Eucharist, , was then reverently carried in procession to the Altar of Repose, accompanied by the priests, altar servers, and the twelve children representing the apostles.

The entire celebration was beautifully uplifted by the soulful choir, adding depth and solemnity to the liturgy. The significance of Maundy Thursday was meaningfully brought alive by the high school children, enriching the faithful’s understanding of this sacred day.

Photography : Anvitha

Report: Meena Serrao Barboza