02 Apr 26 – Holy Thursday: Eucharist, Priesthood, Love One Another

This episode of Jesus 911 explores the profound spiritual significance of Holy Thursday, the night of the Last Supper and the institution of the Eucharist and priesthood. Hosts Jess and Paul delve into the historical and liturgical roots of Holy Thursday, drawing from the 1917 Catholic Encyclopedia and liturgical documents like Pascalis Solemnitatis. They highlight the day’s key observances: the Chrism Mass, the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, the washing of feet, the stripping of the altar, and the reservation of the Blessed Sacrament. The hosts emphasize that Holy Thursday is not just a commemoration but the source and summit of Christian faith, where Christ instituted the Eucharist and the ministerial priesthood. They also reflect on the universal commandment to love one another, noting that while Protestants may miss the sacramental and priestly dimensions, they often embody the spirit of service and love, as seen in figures like Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Jim Elliott. The episode culminates in a powerful apologetic discussion on the threefold priesthood—high priest (Christ), ministerial priest (the ordained), and the royal priesthood of all believers—using Scripture and Church tradition to defend the Catholic understanding of ordained priesthood as essential to Christian unity and authenticity.