Observance of Holy Thursday in the Orthodox Christian tradition

Holy Thursday, also known as Red Thursday, is a central day of Holy Week in the Orthodox Church commemorating the Last Supper, the washing of the disciples' feet, and the establishment of the Holy Eucharist. During the Last Supper, Jesus taught humility and established the sacrament of Holy Communion. The day includes the prayer at the Garden of Gethsemane and the betrayal by Judas, leading to the arrest of Jesus. Traditional customs in Greece involve dyeing eggs red to symbolize the blood of Christ and his sacrifice for the world. Some legends associate the color of the eggs with a miracle performed by Mary Magdalene before Tiberius Caesar. The evening service, known as the Service of the Holy Passion, includes the reading of the twelve Gospels. This period is also characterized by reflection, repentance, and preparation through sacraments like Holy Unction performed during the preceding days.