On March 24, 2016, Maundy Thursday was commemorated in Prelacy Churches with a number of poignant services, beginning in the morning with Divine Liturgy marking the institution of the Eucharist by our Lord Jesus Christ during the Last Supper.
In the evening, we recall the love, humility, and selfless service of our Lord as He washed the feet of His disciples, offering a beautiful and inspiring example for us to follow. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, presided over the service at St. Garabed Church in Hollywood. The Prelate washed and anointed the feet of young children with water and blessed butter, after which he delivered his message, putting emphasis on our duty as Christians to serve one another with love and humility, with our Lord Jesus Christ as our role model.
The solemn Vigil service was held in the evening, commemorating the betrayal, arrest, trial, and suffering of our Lord Jesus Christ. As each Scripture passage was read of the last hours of the earthly life of our Lord, candles representing the twelve apostles were extinguished until only one remained lit, symbolizing the Light of Christ which can never be extinguished. The Prelate presided over the service at Holy Martyrs Church in Encino and delivered his message, emphasizing the obedience of our Lord Jesus Christ to the will of His Father. His obedience, captured beautifully in His own words, “Not my will, but yours, be done,” reveal the extent of Christ’s love and trust in God the Father and the extent of His love for us in sacrificing Himself for our salvation, stated the Prelate.