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Photo by Pamela Gallagher

The Easter Triduum

Pamela Gallagher —

This week is Holy Week. Holy Week embraces the last days of Lent (until Holy Thursday) and the Easter Triduum. The Sacrament of Penance (Reconciliation) is an excellent way to conclude the penitential season of Lent.

Triduum is the shortest season of the liturgical year. The word Triduum is Latin for 3 days. It is the most solemn season and the highest point of the entire liturgical year. Triduum begins with the evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, and ends with Evening Prayer on Easter Sunday. It includes the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion and Adoration of the Holy Cross on Good Friday, the Easter Vigil in the evening of Holy Saturday, and the celebration of Mass on Easter Sunday.

 "Beginning with the Easter Triduum as its source of light, the new age of the Resurrection fills the whole liturgical year with its brilliance. Gradually, on either side of this source, the year is transfigured by the liturgy" (Catechism of the Catholic Church) . 

Pope Francis says: “Just as God told Joseph: “Son of David, do not be afraid!” (Mt 1:20), so he seems to tell us: “Do not be afraid!” We need to set aside all anger and disappointment and to embrace the way things are, even when they do not turn out as we wish. Not with mere resignation but with hope and courage. In this way, we become open to a deeper meaning. Our lives can be miraculously reborn if we find the courage to live them in accordance with the Gospel.” That is our challenge, to read Scripture and live the message that touches our heart. Spend time reading your Bible. Each week you will find the daily readings on our Diocesan website. Bookmark it! 

Easter reminds us of God’s never-ending love for us. Let us all together praise and worship God for his endless blessings. Have a blessed Easter.


HOLY WEEK SERVICES IN OUR PARISH

Image by: Ben Gorman