BROWNSVILLE — Amid song and prayer, worshippers gathered to observe Holy Thursday at Immaculate Conception Cathedral.
The religious celebration, which marks the first of three days centered on Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, commemorates the Last Supper.
Bishop Daniel E. Flores said the days leading up to Easter are a period of reflection on Christ’s sacrifice and on his message of love.
“It’s a great time in the Valley, and there’s a lot of participation,” including among the youth, he said. “It’s really the most solemn time of the year.”
Each year, Flores washes the feet of 12 parishioners to symbolize Jesus doing the same for his disciples. It’s a reminder of Christ’s call to serve one other, Flores said, rather than to be served.
For parishioner Irasema Garate, Holy Thursday mass is a time for Catholics to return to their roots and reflect on their faith.
“It’s a sad day,” she said, “but happy, too, because I can see this example of (Christ’s) humility.”
The Triduum, which takes place during the last three days of Holy Week, will continue with a re-enactment of the Stations of the Cross on Good Friday and the Easter Vigil.
“It’s also a call to conversion, to repent, but also to thanksgiving,” Flores said.
More than 1,000 people across the Valley are prepared for initiation into the Catholic Church on Holy Saturday.
