HIS HOLY LIFE AND HOLY DEATH

 

           The week between Palm Sunday and Easter, known as Holy Week, is the most sacred time of the year. It's the week Christians commemorate the passion of Jesus Christ. During Holy Week it allows us an opportunity to reflect upon the shift in humanity Jesus' sacrifice on the cross launched. It starts with Palm Sunday when Jesus enters the city of Jerusalem. The week leads us through the Last Supper, His crucifixion, and ends on Easter Sunday with His resurrection. The Holy Week comprises Palm Sunday (the sixth Sunday of Lent), Holy Monday, Holy Tuesday, Holy Wednesday (Spy Wednesday), Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday), Good Friday, and Holy Saturday (Black Saturday).

   

        Three years ago we celebrate Holy Week virtually because of the pandemic. We didn't do the usual celebration we used to do during Holy Week. This year, we were able to celebrate Holy Week like we used to. The First day of Holy Week was Last Sunday also called Palm Sunday, it is the day of Holy Week before Easter, commemorating Jesus Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem. I attended the mass and also the blessing and procession of palms. Second Day, it is Holy Monday, Jesus cursed the fig tree, cleansed the temple, and responded to questioning of his authority. The third day is the Holy Tuesday, which follows Christ's return to Jerusalem from Bethany, not to be confused with his triumphant return to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday after being tested in the desert. After Palm Sunday Jesus goes to Bethany, and on Tuesday he returns to Jerusalem, to go onwards to the Mount of Olives. I attended the procession station of the cross. Next is Holy Wednesday commemorates the Bargain of Judas as a clandestine spy among the disciples. It is also called Spy Wednesday, or Good Wednesday, and Great and Holy Wednesday. Thursday called the Maundy Thursday is a day that commemorates the Washing of the Feet and the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with the Apostles, as described in the canonical gospels. It is the fifth day of Holy Week, preceded by Holy Wednesday and followed by Good Friday. This day reminds us of the importance of humility, selflessness, and service to others. Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus and his death at Calvary. It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum. It is also known as Black Friday. Also, Good Friday is a day of fasting requiring Catholics to refrain from eating meat. Before Easter Sunday, Holy Saturday is a significant day in the Christian faith, commemorating the time when Jesus Christ was buried in the tomb. On this day, Christians reflect on the death and burial of Jesus and prepare for his resurrection on Easter Sunday. Easter Sunday is one of the most festive events among Christians worldwide. It commemorates Jesus Christ’s resurrection from death. He has risen.

        Holy Week is a time for introspection and reflection. It's a good opportunity to consider what we might improve about ourselves, our life, our perspectives, thoughts, and feelings. More than merely a vacation due to the number of days we get off, regardless of religion, we can use it to enhance our faith. Let us remember to be consistent, whether it is Holy Week or not. To grow and strengthen our relationship with the Lord. Consistency is crucial. Let us choose to turn to Him not only in our times of weakness but also in our times of success

References:

https://www.catholic.org/lent/story.php?id=59315

https://www.shutterstock.com/search/holy-week-symbols