Holy Thursday

A King Kneeling to Serve

“He loved them to the end.” — John 13:1

Karl’s understanding of authority was shaped by the image of Christ washing the feet of His disciples. He saw his role not as privilege, but as service — a responsibility to love his people personally and concretely. Even in exile, when all power had been taken from him, that spirit of service remained.

Holy Thursday reveals the heart of Christian kingship: the Eucharist and the basin, the gift of self and the act of humble service. Love takes the form of kneeling. We stand tonight where Karl so often stood — before the mystery of Christ who gives Himself completely. Every vocation, every responsibility, every suffering finds its meaning here, where love is poured out to the end.

Blessed Karl, teach us to live a Eucharistic life of humble and faithful service. Amen.