On April 17, 2025, across various locations in Brazil, Catholics commemorated Quinta-feira Santa (Holy Thursday) with the traditional Missa da Ceia do Senhor (Mass of the Lord's Supper) and the ritual of Lava-pés (Washing of the Feet). This sacred event, which marks the beginning of the Tríduo Pascal (Paschal Triduum), holds significant meaning as it recalls the Last Supper where Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, symbolizing humility and service.
In São Paulo, the ceremony was presided over by Cardeal Dom Odilo Scherer at the Catedral Metropolitana - Catedral da Sé. The archbishop emphasized the importance of the Eucharist and the priesthood, stating, "We remember the Last Supper, where Jesus leaves invaluable gifts, like His body through the sacred Eucharist, instituting the priesthood. Jesus teaches us to do what He did, showing that He who humbly kneels to wash the feet of His disciples is the one who gives His life for us on the cross." This profound reflection resonated with the attendees, many of whom filled the cathedral, eager to participate in this solemn observance.
Meanwhile, in Pelourinho, the Missa da Ceia do Senhor took place at the Catedral Basílica do Santíssimo Salvador. The archbishop of Salvador and primaz of Brazil, Dom Sergio da Rocha, led the service, where he washed the feet of twelve individuals, symbolizing Christ's disciples. The archbishop shared, "This moment is a joyful reminder of the love of God for us, a time for reflection on our lives, and a call for hope, joy, peace, and harmony among all people." Among those present were Maria das Graças Silva Santos, 51, and her mother, Rita Maria de Jesus Santos, 81, who expressed their gratitude for being able to celebrate the beginning of Holy Week.
In Morro da Fumaça, the Igreja Matriz São Roque also hosted the Santa Missa da Ceia do Senhor. Padre Sidnei Vitali presided over the ceremony, washing the feet of twelve parishioners who were chosen for their connection to the theme of the Campanha da Fraternidade (Fraternity Campaign): “Fraternidade e Ecologia Integral” (Fraternity and Integral Ecology). The selected individuals included an environmental engineer, a chemical engineer, a catechist, a minister of the Eucharist, farmers, and a teacher, all of whom embody the campaign's ideals of community service and environmental stewardship.
In Sorocaba, the Missa de Lava-pés gathered faithful at the Catedral de Sorocaba, where Dom Julio Akamine presided over the liturgical act. He explained, "We are celebrating the institution of the Eucharist, the priesthood, the new commandment of love, and also the Washing of the Feet. This celebration recalls Jesus' love, who loved those in the world until the end, even sacrificing Himself." This year, twelve parishioners were chosen to have their feet washed, representing the apostles and emphasizing the importance of humility and service within the community.
At St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, the archpriest, Cardeal Mauro Gambetti, celebrated the Mass of the Lord's Supper, which included the traditional rite of the Washing of the Feet. During his homily, Gambetti reflected on the trials Jesus faced, stating, "Jesus desires ardently to nourish the intimacy and fraternity of the assembly. He wants to eat with them and celebrate Passover with them." He further remarked on the need for compassion and care in relationships, highlighting the fragility and aspirations for freedom, justice, and peace that mirror the disciples' experiences.
As the celebrations unfolded, the Santíssimo Sacramento (Most Holy Sacrament) was taken in procession to a designated altar for adoration, a practice that emphasizes the significance of the Eucharist in Catholic faith. This ritual is not just a remembrance of the Last Supper but also a call to action for the faithful to embody the teachings of Jesus through service and humility.
The observance of Holy Thursday continued with various liturgical events scheduled for the following days of the Tríduo Pascal. On Friday, April 18, a Ação Litúrgica Solene (Solemn Liturgical Action) will occur at 3 PM, alongside the Procissão do Senhor Morto (Procession of the Dead Lord) in Salvador, where the image of Christ will be carried through the historic center. The solemnity of the day will be marked by the Celebration of the Passion of Christ, inviting the community to reflect on the sacrifices of Jesus.
Saturday, April 19, will see the Solene Vigília Pascal (Solemn Easter Vigil) celebrated at 6 PM, culminating in the proclamation of Easter and the renewal of baptismal promises. Finally, the Holy Mass on Easter Sunday, April 20, will gather congregants at various times across different locations, marking the joyous resurrection of Christ.
These events, rich in tradition and spiritual significance, serve to deepen the faith of the community and foster a sense of unity and purpose among the faithful. As they gather to commemorate these sacred moments, the teachings of Jesus continue to inspire and guide them in their daily lives.
