With Covid restrictions lifted, we welcomed Jesus in His triumphant entry to our own “Jerusalems” on Palm Sunday, April 2nd. As we head into the Easter Triduum, we anticipate larger crowds flocking to our churches to participate in the ceremonies from Holy Thursday evening to the Paschal Vigil on Saturday night. However, some of us, including those who attend these observances only as an obligation, need to contemplate the real meaning of this holy week. By doing so, we can find meaningful ways to celebrate this sacred occasion.

Holy Week is a time when Catholics gather to remember and participate in the Passion of Jesus Christ, the final period of his life in Jerusalem from his arrival to his crucifixion.* Through various activities during the week, Catholics worldwide recall and are transformed by the story of Jesus of Nazareth, his trial, suffering, and death, which occurred many centuries ago in Jerusalem.

Here are some simple yet meaningful ways to draw closer to Jesus during his Passion and Death this Holy Week.

Set a Schedule

To make this week special, create a schedule, designating specific times for:

• Prayer
• Spiritual reading
• Simple meals, rest and recreation

Turn Down the Noise

During Holy Week, limit worldly music, social media, and news programs. Instead play sacred liturgical hymns.

• Enjoy sacred music, such as Lent at Ephesus by the Benedictines of Mary Queen of Apostles.

Grow in Your Faith

Holy Week is a wonderful time for spiritual growth. Do something each day to enhance your faith.

• Read a chapter from the Bible.
• Go to Confession with your family members.

Enter the Triduum

Holy Thursday

• Attend church ceremonies. 
• Share a time when someone showed you an act of service and what that meant to you.
• Brainstorm ways to incorporate the Works of Mercy into your life.

Remain With Jesus

• Consider Jesus’ loneliness during this week, but especially as He entered into His Passion. Tonight, spend time with Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Unite your times of loneliness to His loneliness in the Garden.
• Read Matthew 26:36-46.

Good Friday

• On this day, follow the guidelines for fasting and abstaining from meat.
• Keep a period of silence from noon-3 p.m.
• Attend church services: Veneration of the Cross.

Holy Saturday

Rest and Wait

• Contemplate on these questions to prayer: As you wait by Jesus’ tomb, how do you feel? Especially as you see similarities between the historic Holy Saturday and this present time in our lives? How do you hear His calm, small voice whispering to you promises of a new day, a new life?
• Like the Apostle John, invite Mary into your heart and home (John 19:25-27).

Easter Vigil

• Attend the Easter Vigil Mass.