Paschalny wymiar obrzędu „Mandatum” podczas Mszy Wieczerzy Pańskiej Wielkiego Czwartku

Abstract

The article presents the paschal dimension of the most distinctive element of the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, which is the Mandatum, or the rite of the Washing of the Feet. This rite is strictly related to the establishment of the Eucharist in the Upper Room and the death of Jesus on the Cross. The first part of the article elaborates on the theology of the Mandatum rite. The rite of the Washing of the Feet is a sign of unconditional love and humble service. It also symbolizes our purification and our participation in the gift of Salvation in which we are able to partake through the Cross and Resurrection of Christ. The Mandatum clarifies the essence of every Eucharist. In the Eucharist which makes present the death and resurrection of Christ, the Lord comes to us in order to serve us through the gift of love and Salvation. In the second part, the article presents the history and place of the Mandatum in the renewed liturgy after Vatican II. In Christian antiquity, this rite was used during the liturgy of Baptism and the Mass of the Lord Supper. It was also observed in monastic communities. The Mass of the Lord’s Supper in its present form calls for the celebration of this rite immediately after the homily. Considering the deep meaning of this rite, priests should be encouraged to make sure that they do not neglect it in their parishes during the Mass of the Lord’s Supper.