maundy thursday

tonight i went to a maundy thursday service. it started with a parish supper. a simple meal of breads,cheeses,deli meats and fruits. then came the first portion of the service. it was at the basement and the scripture verses were read. the rector reflected about the breaking of the bread. and how Jesus used simple food, things that were there. how simple yet spiritually and religiously significant. then came the foot washing, the first time i took part in it. i had my hand washed, next time i'll have courage to have my feet washed. after this was finished. it was to upstairs for the eucharist. how meaningful after the readings from 1 corinthians and john on the last supper. after the eucharist, came the stripping and washing of the altars. i never knew how many objects are taken away. the picture of Jesus on the left side of the church was taken off. a simple washing of the altar and the lights came off. while the altar was been stripped off, the choir sang psalm 22. i got lost in the listening and was fixated on the altar becoming bare. to me it was solemn and yet profound, that i encourage many to participate in this maundy thursday service. especially at an anglican church that includes the washing of the feet. tomorrow is good friday, and i am anxious of it, as well to easter.