In three of the four canonical gospels, Jesus' last meal with his entourage is a Pesach, a Passover meal. Celebrated by Jews to this day, it recalls the foundational story of the faith, liberation from slavery in Egypt. During the meal bread and wine are accompanied by several symbolic foods. A serving of maror, bitter herbs, reminds of the bitterness of slavery. Charoset, a spiced apple paste, represents the mortar used by slaves to fit bricks. Knipas, vegetables set in salt water, symbolize freedom. Beitzah, roasted egg, is eaten to remind participants of temple sacrifice. And, then, of course, the zeroa, the paschal lamb.
In my ministry, I have experienced that survivors always remember vividly the last words and deeds of the decedent. So it was logical that Jesus would choose this celebration to make a most dramatic and profound transition. For this meal, commonly called the last supper, also became the first Mass. During the ritual Jesus took bread, blessed it, declared it to be his own Body, and gave it out. Then Jesus took wine, blessed it, declared it to be his sacred Blood, and likewise gave that to his friends. Then he authorized -- ordained, if you will -- his apostles to repeat the ritual for all time which has been accomplished through the ages by bishops and priests in apostolic succession.
Importantly, after the meal, according to John's gospel, Jesus took a towel and began to wash the disciples' feet, an unimaginable act of humility and service, and counselled them to continue also humble service. This is a reminder that the Eucharist is not an end in itself but rather fuel to feed followers of Jesus so that we can do servant ministry in the world.
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