Holy Week

The week between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday, Holy Week, is the most sacred time of year. During this special time, we enter into the passion of Christ — his crucifixion, death and resurrection — through liturgical celebration, prayer and reflection. While the season of Lent is a very important time in the Church, it is helpful to remember that our Lenten practices (prayer, fasting and almsgiving) are meant as preparation for the three days of the Triduum.

What Is the Triduum?

The three days of the Triduum are counted as the Hebrews counted their days, from dusk to dusk. Lent officially ends and the Triduum begins at dusk on Holy Thursday and continues through dusk on Easter Sunday. We cannot separate Jesus’ death from his resurrection, therefore the Church teaches that the Triduum is really one celebration that lasts for three days. 

Holy Thursday

So when he had washed their feet [and] put his garments back on and reclined at table again, he said to them, “Do you realize what I have done for you?” ~ John 13:12

The evening Mass on Holy Thursday begins the Sacred Triduum. On this night we remember the Last Supper and celebrate the beginnings of the Eucharist and the Sacrament of Holy Orders. At the end of the liturgy, the sanctuary is stripped clean in preparation for the most somber of feasts, Good Friday.

Good Friday

He said, “It is finished.” And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit. ~ John 19:30

Good Friday is a sombre remembrance of Jesus’ crucifixion and death on the cross. It is a day of fasting and penance and a time to examine all of the places in our lives where we fail to follow Christ and fall into sin. 

Easter Sunday

We celebrate the risen Lord at Mass with the singing of the Gloria and alleluias, the renewal of baptismal vows, a sprinkling with Easter water and receiving the Eucharist. 

I wish you all a Holy and happy Easter and a very safe break.

Claire Russo

Religious Education Leader