Maundy Thursday

In the Christian calendar, Maundy Thursday is the English version of 'Holy Thursday,' the Thursday before Easter. It celebrates Jesus's last supper before his execution. Outside English-speaking countries it is universally known as Holy Thursday.

The Middle English word 'Maundy,' used only in this context, derives from Old French mandé from Latin mandamentum or 'commandment,' in reference to the opening words of the Catholic liturgy for this day, Mandatum novum do vobis 'a new commandment I give unto you' (John xiii:34), words spoken by Jesus to the Apostles after washing their feet in preparation for the Last Supper.

See also: Maundy money