EASTER: FOLLOW THE THREAD FROM SUPPER TO LIGHT!

Enter church on Easter Sunday and you reach the day of resurrection. The Triduum has already begun: it extends from the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday to Sunday evening prayer. The liturgy brings together Jesus’s passion, death and resurrection.

Thursday: the table and service

The Mass of the Lord’s Supper remembers the Last Supper, joining the Eucharist, ministerial priesthood and the commandment of love. Washing feet, where provided, makes service visible. At the end, the Blessed Sacrament is transferred and a time of adoration begins.

Friday: the cross

The celebration of the Lord’s Passion includes Scripture, prayer, veneration of the cross and Communion. Mass is not celebrated that day. The Stations of the Cross have value as a devotion but do not replace the liturgical celebration.

The cross speaks of Jesus and his gift of life. It must never be used to ask anyone to remain in a violent or dangerous situation.

Saturday: waiting, then night

Holy Saturday is a day of silence beside the tomb. At night, the Vigil brings together light, readings, baptismal liturgy and Eucharist. The burning paschal candle and proclamation of resurrection mark the passage from darkness to light.

The Catechism presents resurrection as the heart of Christian faith, rather than simply a return to the previous life. The empty tomb and encounters with the risen Christ form part of the Gospels’ testimony.

When can we take part?

Easter’s date changes each year, moving other celebrations too. Consult the liturgical calendar and parish times. You can start with one appointment, knowing where it belongs in the story.

Here is the map:

Thursday: the Lord’s Supper.

Friday: the Passion.

Saturday: waiting.

Easter night: the Vigil.

Sunday: the Resurrection.

Now you can follow the thread through the rites!