Maundy Thursday liturgy and community meal at st-johns-portsmouth.

Event Details

• Date: Thursday, April 2, 2026
• Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM EDT (Overnight watch continues to 8:00 AM Friday)
• Location: Chisholm Hall & the Nave, St. John's Episcopal Church (424 Washington St, Portsmouth, VA)

Liturgical Observances

• The Upper Room: Gathering in Chisholm Hall for 1st-century-era food and foot washing, following Jesus' command (mandatum).
• Eucharist & Stripping of the Altar: Moving to the nave for Eucharist, followed by stripping the altar bare and cleaning it with vinegar and water to symbolize abandonment. The sanctuary lamp is extinguished and lowered.
• Gethsemane Watch: The Blessed Sacrament remains in the Memorial Garden from 8:30 PM Thursday until 8:00 AM Friday for personal vigil.

Registration

Please contact the Parish Office to RSVP to assist with food preparation.