Christians in Hyderabad observe Maundy Thursday

Hyderabad: Christians observed Maundy Thursday by taking part in the Lord’s supper, symbolising Jesus's last supper. The Thursday before Good Friday in the holy week commemorates Maundy Thursday.

All churches in the twin cities conducted the services.

At St Joseph’s cathedral in Gunfoundry, Archbishop of Hyderabad, Cardinal Anthony Poola washed the feet of the elderly members of the parish, as Lord Jesus Christ did of His disciples. The mass was organised in the open area, with a background of stained glass and reflections of Christ Passover and crucifixion.

Cardinal Poola preached about how God humbled Himself and came to this world taking the human form, he explained. “Jesus loved his disciples without any expectations, and He chose to accompany his people till the end,” he said.

Wesley church at Clock Tower Secunderabad, which had its combined service, started with hymns and songs while the houseful attendance marked Maundy Thursday service and Holy Communion was served to the baptised members.

At Methodist church, Chapel road, Bishop M.A. Daniel explained the Old Testament and how Israel celebrated after coming out of Egypt. Here Jesus freed mankind from sin. He also mentioned the agony of Jesus Christ in the garden of Gethsemane. “Jesus shed his blood. Whenever we take part in the table of the last supper, we have to remember the sacrifice of Christ,” he said.

Deborah Steveen, Sugandha Sawlikar and Vedamani Samuel rendered the special hymn.