Journeying Through Holy Week: Walking with Christ in His Passion, Death, and Resurrection
- St. Mary's Parish National City
- Apr 11
- 3 min read
Holy Week is the most sacred time in the Catholic Church’s liturgical calendar. It begins on Palm Sunday, commemorating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, and leads us through the sorrowful events of His Passion and Death, culminating in the joyful celebration of His Resurrection at Easter.
What Happens During Holy Week?
Each day of Holy Week invites us into deeper reflection and participation in the Paschal Mystery—the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Here are the key liturgical events:
Palm Sunday (Passion Sunday): The faithful carry palms to reenact Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, followed by the solemn reading of the Passion narrative.
Holy Monday to Holy Wednesday: These days are typically marked with daily Mass and preparation for the Triduum, focusing on Christ’s journey toward the cross.
Holy Thursday: Celebrates the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, commemorating the institution of the Eucharist and the priesthood. The traditional Washing of the Feet reminds us of our call to serve. The evening concludes with the Transfer of the Blessed Sacrament and Adoration, symbolizing Jesus’ agony in the garden.
Good Friday: A day of fasting, prayer, and mourning. We gather for the Stations of the Cross, the Seven Last Words, and the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion, including the Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion.
Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil): The Church keeps vigil, beginning in darkness with the Blessing of the Fire and Paschal Candle, moving into the Liturgy of the Word, Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist—welcoming new members into the Church.
Easter Sunday: The Resurrection of the Lord is joyfully celebrated with the Mass of Easter Day. It marks the triumph of Christ over sin and death, and the beginning of a new life in the Risen Christ. This is the most important feast of the Christian year and the foundation of our faith.
What is the Paschal Triduum?
The Paschal Triduum begins on Holy Thursday evening and concludes on Easter Sunday evening. This three-day liturgy is the heart of our faith. It’s not just a series of separate services but one continuous celebration of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Christ—the Passover of the Lord.
Why Should We Participate?
Holy Week isn't just for priests or liturgical ministers—it’s for every Catholic. By joining in the liturgies, we don’t just remember what happened—we enter into it.
Being one of the 12 Apostles during the Washing of the Feet on Holy Thursday is a moving way to embody Christ’s call to humility and service.
Serving as a Speaker for the Seven Last Words on Good Friday allows us to reflect deeply on the final moments of Jesus' life and share insights that can move hearts and strengthen faith.
Through these powerful acts of participation, we become living witnesses to the love of Christ.
Holy Week Schedule at St. Mary Parish, National City
We invite all parishioners, families, and visitors to join us during this sacred time. Let us come together in prayer, remembrance, and celebration.
📅 Holy Thursday – April 17. Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 6:00 PM in the Ortmann Center. Followed by a Procession to the Church and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
📅 Good Friday – April 18. Stations of the Cross at 12:00 PM, Seven Last Words of Jesus Celebration of the Lord’s Passion at 3:00 PM in the Church
📅 Holy Saturday – April 19. Easter Vigil Mass begins at the Ortmann Center with the Blessing of the Fire and Paschal Candle,followed by a Procession to the Church and Celebration of the Easter Vigil Liturgy