Maundy Thursday

Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday, is observed in Svalbard and Jan Mayen as part of the Christian Holy Week leading up to Easter. While Svalbard and Jan Mayen are remote Arctic territories with small populations, the day is recognized by the Christian community, particularly in Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Svalbard. On Maundy Thursday, Christians commemorate the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples, a significant event in Christian theology. In Svalbard, religious services may be held in local churches, where the washing of feet (a symbolic act of humility and service) and the Eucharist are often central to the observance. The day is marked by reflection, prayer, and preparation for Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Due to the unique and isolated nature of Svalbard and Jan Mayen, celebrations are typically small and intimate, reflecting the close-knit community. The Arctic environment adds a distinctive backdrop to the solemnity of the day, with the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights or the extended twilight of the polar spring. Overall, Maundy Thursday in Svalbard and Jan Mayen is a quiet, reflective observance, blending religious tradition with the stark beauty of the Arctic.