Filipino Catholics In Valencia, Spain Mark Holy Thursday With Mass Of The Lord’s Supper

VALENCIA, Spain — Filipino Catholics in Valencia marked Holy Thursday with the celebration of the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at the Parroquia Patriarca San José, home to the Santo Niño de Cebu Personal Parish serving the Filipino community, on April 2 at 6:00 p.m.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by parish priest Rev. Fr. Edgar dela Cruz Balboa and commemorated the institution of the Holy Eucharist during the Last Supper, as well as the washing of the feet of the Twelve Apostles.

In keeping with the tradition, Fr. Balboa performed the washing of the feet on twelve participants—men and women of different ages—including three members of the Filipino community.

In his homily, Fr. Balboa emphasized that the gesture represents not only an act of humble service but also the spiritual purification of the heart. He also reflected on the varied personalities of the apostles, noting that their strengths and weaknesses serve as a mirror through which the faithful may better understand their own spiritual journey.

The celebration concluded with the solemn transfer of the Blessed Sacrament to the altar of repose, marking the beginning of the period of adoration and vigil in preparation for the Easter Triduum.

Photos: Dennis Tanoc