Easter, also known as the Holy Week, is a religious observance for Christians all over the world. This week commemorates the Crucifixion, death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, symbolizing hope, renewal, and redemption. Throughout this week, Christians pray, repent, fast, and attend church gatherings to observe different spiritual events that occurred on different days.
Psalm Sunday marks the beginning of the Holy Week. This day represents the Christian belief of Jesus entering the town of Jerusalem. On this day, Jesus rode into the town on a donkey, while being greeted by crowds of cheering people. These people were waving palm branches. At this time, palm branches were a sign of respect or special honor shown to kings and royalty. Now, these branches represent a symbol of victory of the faithful and goodness. In most Christian church gatherings, people distribute blessings along with palm branches. Many people shape these branches into different shapes, like a cross.
Maundy Thursday is the next important day of the Holy Week. This fifth day of the week represents a commemoration of the Last Supper and the Washing of the Feet. The Last Supper was for the celebration of Passover, and was a foreshadowing of Jesus’ sacrifice the next day. The Washing of the Feet is when Jesus washed the feet of the Twelve Apostles at the Last Supper, the night before his crucifixion. This is also when Jesus established the sacrament of Holy Communion. Maundy Thursday reminds us of the importance of selflessness, humility, and service to others.
Good Friday is the 6th day of the Holy Week. On this day, Christians commemorate Jesus’s Crucifixion and death. During this time, Christians normally fast, pray, and do penance. The word “Good” in Good Friday represents the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Good Friday is in total, a day of mourning and reflection. It’s a time to remember the great sacrifices Jesus did for us.
Holy Saturday follows Good Friday. This day is for reflection over Jesus’s death and burial. It is believed that this is the day when He performed in spirit the Harrowing of Hell and raised up to Paradise, while liberated those who were held captive. The Easter Vigil is also held on this day. The Easter Vigil is a liturgy held as the first celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus. This day is not only a day of sadness, but a reminder for God’s promises. Holy Saturday is typically for reflection and preparation for Jesus’s Resurrection.
Easter Sunday is the final day of the Holy Week. On this day, Christians commemorate the Resurrection of Jesus, which occurred on the third day of his burial. Easter Sunday is celebrated by holding a procession called the Stations of the Cross, which re-enacts Jesus’ journey carrying his cross to his Crucifixion. Easter Sunday is also proceeded by the season of Lent, which is a 40-day period of fasting, praying, and penance.
In conclusion, Holy Week serves as a time of reflection, remembrance, and spiritual renewal for Christians around the world. Through the observance of the events leading up to Easter Sunday, believers are reminded of the sacrifice and love of Jesus Christ, as well as the hope and redemption that his resurrection brings. As we commemorate Holy Week each year, may we be renewed in our commitment to living out the teachings of Christ and sharing his message of love and redemption with others.
