Holy Week is the most sacred week in the Catholic liturgical calendar. It marks the final days of Lent and leads us into the celebration of Easter, the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This solemn and powerful week invites all Catholics to reflect deeply on the Passion, death, and resurrection of our Lord.
A Journey Through Holy Week
Palm Sunday
Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, commemorating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Parishioners receive blessed palms, reminding us of the crowds who welcomed Jesus with joy—many of whom would later cry for His crucifixion.
Holy Monday to Wednesday
These days reflect Jesus’ final teachings and actions before His Passion. They are a time for prayer, confession, and preparing our hearts for the events to come.
Holy Thursday – The Lord’s Supper
On Holy Thursday, we remember the Last Supper, when Jesus instituted the Eucharist and priesthood. The Mass of the Lord’s Supper often includes the Washing of the Feet, a gesture of humble service. The evening ends with a silent procession to the altar of repose, where the faithful are invited to “keep watch” with Jesus in prayer.
Good Friday – The Passion of the Lord
Good Friday is a solemn day of fasting, prayer, and reflection on the Passion and Crucifixion of Christ. There is no Mass. Instead, Catholics gather for the Liturgy of the Word, the Veneration of the Cross, and Holy Communion. We mourn, yet we adore the Cross as the instrument of our salvation.
Holy Saturday – The Vigil of Easter
Holy Saturday is a quiet day of waiting and hope. At nightfall, we celebrate the Easter Vigil, the most powerful and beautiful liturgy of the year. The new fire is lit, the Exsultet is sung, and we recount salvation history through Scripture. Catechumens and candidates receive the Sacraments of Initiation, becoming full members of the Church.
Easter Sunday – The Resurrection of the Lord
Holy Week culminates in Easter Sunday, the celebration of Christ’s victory over sin and death. It is the heart of our faith: He is Risen! Alleluia!
Why Holy Week Matters
Holy Week is not just a series of events—it’s a spiritual journey. By walking with Christ through His suffering and glory, we renew our commitment to follow Him more closely. It’s a time of grace, conversion, and deepened love.
Come journey with us. Come remember. Come celebrate.
