Old Mission
Founded 1804
Capuchin Franciscan
Santa Inés
Solvang, California
Sacred Heart Sisters
Mission Santa Inés

Holy Thursday - Jueves Santo

Thursday of the Lord's Supper or Holy Thursday marks the beginning of The Sacred Paschal Triduum. Holy Thursday celebrates the institution of the Eucharist as the true body and blood of Jesus Christ and the institution of the sacrament of the priesthood. This Mass stresses the importance Jesus puts on the humility of service by washing his disciples feet and the need for cleansing with water by baptism. Also the critical importance of the Eucharist and the sacrifice of Christ’s Body and Blood, which we find present in the consecrated Host, is emphasized. 

The three sacred oils that represent the work of the Holy Spirit and symbolize that oil "serves to sweeten, to strengthen, to render supple" (Catholic Encyclopedia) are presented during the Holy Thursday mass. The Oil of Catechumens ("Oleum Catechumenorum" or "Oleum Sanctum") used in Baptism along with water, in the consecration of churches, in the blessing of Altars, in the ordination of priests, and, sometimes, in the crowning of Catholic kings and queens. The Holy Chrism ("Sanctum Chrisma") or "Oil of Gladness," which is olive oil mixed with a small amount of balm or balsam. It is used in Confirmation, Baptism, in the consecration of a Bishop, the consecration of a various things such as churches, chalices, patens, and bells. The Oil of the Sick ("Oleum Infirmorum"), which is used in Unction or the act of anointing as a rite of consecration or healing. 

At the conclusion of the Mass, the Most Blessed Sacrament is transferred to a place of reposition until Holy Saturday Vigil. The Tabernacle is entirely empty signifying that Jesus has been arrested and is on his way to crucifixion the following morning, Good Friday. The faithful are invited to continue Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament throughout the evening, just as the disciples were invited to stay up with the Lord during His agony in the garden before His betrayal by Judas. After Holy Thursday, no Mass will be celebrated again in the Church until the Holy Saturday Easter Vigil celebrates and proclaims the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.

At Old Mission Santa Inés, the Holy Thursday mass is marked by a priest and deacon washing the feet of a dozen parishioners who represent the 12 disciples of Christ.  After the procession transferring the Blessed Sacrament to the Parish Hall, there is time for quiet reflection and adoration.  Below is a photo video of this year's Holy Thursday events.