Holy Week at Home:
Holy (Maundy) Thursday

• Foot-Washing Service

  • What to Do: Fill a basin with warm water and grab a towel. Take turns gently washing each other’s feet (or hands if feet feel too personal), reading John 13:1-17 aloud where Jesus washes the disciples’ feet. Discuss how you can serve others like Jesus did—maybe helping a sibling or neighbor—and end with a prayer of thanks.

  • Why It Fits: This reenacts Jesus’ humble act of service and his new commandment (“Maundy” from mandatum) to love one another, making the lesson of servant-heartedness tangible for families.

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• Last Supper Meal

  • What to Do: Prepare a simple meal with bread and grape juice or wine (for adults). Sit together, break the bread, and share the drink.  Talk about what it means that Jesus gave his Body and Blood for us, then say a blessing over the meal.

  • Why It Fits: It mirrors the Last Supper, helping families connect to the Eucharist’s origins and Jesus’ gift of himself, fostering gratitude and intimacy with Him.

 

• Prayer Vigil Craft

  • What to Do: Make a small “garden” scene with rocks, twigs, or paper to represent Gethsemane where Jesus prays while the disciples sleep. Set a timer for 5-10 minutes and sit quietly by your garden, praying or reflecting on staying awake with Jesus. Kids can draw what they think about.

  • Why It Fits: This reflects Jesus’ plea in Gethsemane to “watch and pray,” encouraging families to share in his lonely vigil and strengthen their resolve to follow God’s will.

 

• Love Commandment Banner

  • What to Do: Cut a piece of paper or fabric into a banner shape. Write or paint John 13:34-35 (“Love one another as I have loved you”) on it, decorating with hearts or crosses. Hang it up and brainstorm one act of love for each family member to do that day—like a kind note or chore swap.

  • Why It Fits: It captures the “new commandment” Jesus gave at the Last Supper, turning his words into a visible, actionable call to love that echoes the day’s core message.

 

• Bread of Life Sharing

  • What to Do: Bake or use store-bought unleavened bread (like flatbread). Break it into pieces while reading John 6:35 (“I am the bread of life”). Pass the pieces around, and as each person takes one, share something they’re thankful for about Jesus. End with a song like “Amazing Love” or a quiet moment.

  • Why It Fits: This ties to the Eucharist’s institution and Jesus’ identity as our sustenance, deepening the family’s appreciation for his sacrifice as Holy Thursday transitions to the Passion.

 

These activities blend celebration, service, and solemnity, reflecting Maundy Thursday’s shift from the joy of the Last Supper to the sorrow of Gethsemane. They’re hands-on and flexible—perfect for kids and adults to experience the day’s richness at home while preparing for Good Friday.