Holy Thursday marks the beginning of the sacred Triduum—the three solemn days in the Catholic tradition leading to Easter Sunday. It is a night rich with symbolism, reverence, and a call to serve.
At the heart of the liturgy is the Washing of the Feet, a powerful re-enactment of Jesus’ final gesture of humility and love on the eve of his Passion.
Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta.
On this night, Jesus took on the role of a servant, stooping to wash the feet of his disciples. This enduring act is simple yet profound.
“Jesus guides us as a good shepherd. He is always leading us to the great pastures of truth,” Fr Vincent Savarimuthu said in his Holy Thursday homily.
Holy Name of Mary Parish, Rydalmere, Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta.
Reflecting on the meaning of the evening and the approaching celebration of Easter, Fr Vincent Savarimuthu, Parish Priest of Holy Name of Mary Parish Rydalmere, offered a message of introspection.
“On Holy Thursday, Jesus has asked every one of us to reflect Him in our relationships, by loving and serving one another,” he said.
Fr Vincent Savarimuthu. Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta.
“If you have got anything against yourself, against others, and if you still are carrying the baggage of anxieties, worries, grievances, great feelings, let us surrender everything unto Jesus Christ.
He added, “Let us take this time, as well as tomorrow, and the day after tomorrow, to reflect on God’s love for us and let us always pray that we may always be loving persons to one another.”
The parish was filled with a spirit of reverence as Fr Vincent Savarimuthu, accompanied by his team, led the symbolic ritual of the Washing of the Feet.
Washing of the Feet. Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta.
Twelve parishioners, a mix of males and females of all ages, came forward and sat on designated chairs—six to the left, six to the right. One by one, their feet were gently washed and dried, echoing the actions of Christ and reminding all present of the call to humility and service.
Following the ritual, the Offertory and the Presentation of the Holy Oils took place. These sacred oils—blessed earlier by the bishop—were brought forth by three parishioners: the Oil of the Sick, the Oil of Catechumens, and the Oil of Holy Chrism. Each represents a vital sacramental part of the Church’s life and mission.
Offering the sacred oils. Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta.
The evening concluded with the solemn procession of the Blessed Sacrament. It was carried to a special place in the corner of church, where the faithful were invited to remain in prayer and quiet reflection—a spiritual vigil to accompany Christ in His final hours before the crucifixion.
As the night unfolded, it served as a living reminder of the depth of Jesus’ love and the invitation to imitate Him—not only in worship but in daily acts of compassion, humility, and grace.
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