Leo XIV Papal Mass “in Coena Domini” in the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, April 2nd 2026 The Mass of the Lord’s Supper Basilica of St John the Lateran
Booklet for the Celebration: Holy Thursday – Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper 2 April 2026
Homily of Leo XIV Holy Mass “in Coena Domini” in the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, April 2nd 2026
Dear brothers and sisters,
This evening’s solemn liturgy marks our entry into the Holy Triduum of the Lord’s Passion, Death and Resurrection. We cross this threshold not as mere spectators, nor out of habit, but as those personally invited by Jesus himself as guests at the Supper in which bread and wine become for us the sacrament of salvation. Indeed, we take part in a banquet at which Christ “having loved his own who were in the world, loved them to the end” (Jn 13:1). His love becomes both gesture and nourishment for all, revealing the justice of God. In this world, and particularly in those places where evil abounds, Jesus loves definitively — forever, and with his whole being.
The Mass of the Lord’s Supper took place on Holy Thursday, presided over by Pope Leo XIV from the Archbasilica of St John Lateran, on Holy. This solemn liturgical celebration signifies the beginning of the Paschal Triduum and commemorates the institution of the Eucharist, the priesthood, and Christ’s call to charity and service.
