Holy Week, celebrated from April 2nd to April 8th this year, is the most sacred week in the liturgical year in Christianity. It is the week preceding Easter, beginning on Palm Sunday and ending on Holy Saturday. During Holy Week, Christians recall the events leading up to Jesus’ death by crucifixion and his Resurrection. The week includes five days of special significance.
At the start of Holy Week, Palm Sunday celebrates the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. In many Christian churches, Palm Sunday is celebrated with a blessing and procession of palms.
Maundy Thursday is celebrated in commemoration of Jesus' institution of the Eucharist during the Last Supper. In Roman Catholicism, Maundy Thursday is accompanied by the pope’s washing of the feet of 12 humble or poor persons, in imitation of Jesus’ washing the feet of his 12 disciples at the Last Supper.
After that, Good Friday commemorates Jesus' submission to suffering and death by crucifixion. It is usually a day of sorrow, penance, and fasting.
Holy Saturday, also known as Easter Vigil, is traditionally the final day of Lent. It is a day of vigil in preparation for Easter. The day culminates with the Easter Vigil in many churches where the Easter Candle, the Light of Christ, leads a congregation through song and prayer to celebrate Jesus' resurrection.
Wishing a good Holy Week to our Christian students and partners!
