The term “Maundy” is from the Latin word for commandment. It refers to when Jesus said to his disciples during the last supper, “A new commandment I give you, that you love one another; even as I have loved you.” (John 13:34) The day commemorates the Last Supper, during which, according to the Bible, Jesus rose from the table and washed the feet of his disciples, telling His disciples: “If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14)
Maundy Thursday services are typically more solemn occasions, marked by the shadow of Jesus’ betrayal. Near the end of the Last Supper, after Judas had departed, Christ said to His disciples, “A new commandment I give unto you: That you love one another, as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” (John 13:34)
