The Passover described in the first reading, and Jesus’ and the disciples’ celebration of it in the Gospel, together with our liturgy tonight, are all real events in time, connected by our shared ritual. We are gathering to remember who we are, where we have been, and that something is about to happen that changes us. We practise this not only to mark the historical and ongoing dying and rising of Jesus, but also so we can do it in the Holy Thursdays of our ordinary lives. When we hold vigil with a loved one who is dying, we eat last meals, play last games, sing last songs. When someone is moving, we get together for a last visit, make a favourite meal, wash and pack clothes. These rituals of remembering and anticipating are critical to moving through change. Jesus eats with His friends and makes one last grand gesture of service to His people. So sink deeply into this Holy Thursday Mass and the Triduum as practice for the transitions life will ask of you in the coming year. Practise finding meaning for your life here, so you can be a witness to the God who meets us in changes of all kinds in the world.

Prayer of the Faithful: For reverence for the rituals we need, in church and in our lives, we pray to the Lord.

Text: CCCB – National Pastoral Initiative for Life and the Family