The Paschal Triduum, the three days leading up to Easter Sunday, stands as the most sacred time in the Catholic liturgical year. It’s not just a commemoration of historical events, but a deep immersion into the Paschal Mystery – the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. While the core theological significance has remained constant, the way the Church has celebrated these holy days has evolved, offering us richer insights into their meaning today.

To truly grasp the current meaning of the Triduum, it’s helpful to look back at how it was celebrated in the past, particularly before the liturgical reforms of the mid-20th century. Our exploration will draw on the pre-1955 Roman Missal, the Catechism of the Council of Trent, and the insights into later developments found in other provided sources.

Holy Thursday: From Morning Solemnity to Evening Remembrance

Before the reforms initiated by Pius XII, the celebration of Holy Thursday Mass typically occurred in the morning. It was treated as a solemn feast day, with white vestments and the recitation of both the Gloria and the Creed. This morning celebration provided a full day for the faithful to engage in prayer and adoration before the Altar of Repose.

A particularly distinctive practice of the pre-1955 rite was the handling of the Blessed Sacrament. After Communion, only one large consecrated Host remained, which was then placed in the chalice, symbolizing a powerful connection between the Eucharistic gift and Christ’s impending sacrifice. This Host was then carried in a solemn procession to the Altar of Repose, a place often elaborately decorated to evoke the Garden of Gethsemane, where the faithful would adore the Eucharist. Following this, the altars of the church were ceremonially stripped, a stark visual representation of Christ’s abandonment and the desolation of his Passion. Furthermore, the Mandatum, the washing of feet, was performed separately and exclusively by the bishop, who would wash the feet of twelve priests, highlighting the connection to Christ and his Apostles and the establishment of Holy Orders.

Today, in line with reforms that sought to restore the Triduum’s liturgies to their “primitive” evening timings, Holy Thursday is now universally celebrated with an evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper. This timing more closely aligns with the biblical account of the Last Supper. While the Gloria with bells and the procession of the Eucharist to the Altar of Repose remain important elements, the foot-washing rite (Mandatum) has become an integral part of the Mass and is now optional but widespread, with Pope Francis clarifying in 2016 that participants can include both men and women. The stripping of the altar after the Mass continues to symbolize the beginning of Christ’s Passion, though it may be less formal. The theological heart of Holy Thursday remains the commemoration of the institution of the Eucharist and the priesthood at the Last Supper, as taught by the Catechism of Trent and reiterated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The emphasis today also underscores the communal aspect of the Eucharist as the “sacrament of unity”.

Good Friday: Enduring Sacrifice, Renewed Participation

Good Friday in the pre-1955 tradition was a day of profound solemnity and penance. The liturgy was stark, with black vestments and a silent altar reflecting mourning. The Mass of the Presanctified was celebrated, a unique liturgy in which no consecration of the Eucharist occurred. It included readings from Hosea and Exodus, the solemn chanting of the Passion according to John, and Solemn Intercessions for the Church and the world, which notably included prayers even for “heretics and schismatics”. The Adoration of the Cross, accompanied by the Reproaches (Improperia) and hymns like Crux Fidelis, focused intensely on Christ’s sacrifice. Communion, from the reserved Host, was a rare practice outside of Mass in this period.

The reforms brought changes to the Good Friday liturgy while retaining its essential elements. Red vestments now replace black, symbolizing the blood of Christ. The Reproaches have been simplified, and Communion is now a standard part of the liturgy, reflecting a post-Vatican II emphasis on the importance of receiving the Eucharist. The Passion according to John continues to be proclaimed, and the Solemn Intercessions remain a central feature, though revisions, starting even before Vatican II, removed harsh language, reflecting a greater sensitivity towards ecumenism. The Adoration of the Holy Cross remains a powerful and central rite. The theological understanding of Good Friday as the day of Christ’s Passion and Death, the culmination of His redemptive sacrifice, as articulated by the Catechism of Trent and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, remains foundational. The current emphasis, however, often highlights Christ’s sacrificial death as an act of love, with a greater focus on universal salvation.

Easter Vigil: From Morning Anticipation to the Night of Resurrection

The Easter Vigil, the liturgical celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, holds the highest solemnity in the Catholic tradition. In the pre-1955 Roman Missal, the Vigil was often held in the morning. It began with the blessing of the New Fire and the Paschal Candle, symbolizing Christ’s light and risen presence, accompanied by the chanting of the Exsultet. A significant part of the Vigil involved the reading of twelve Old Testament prophecies, tracing the history of salvation, though these were often abbreviated in practice. The blessing of the baptismal font and the baptism of catechumens were central, followed by the Litany of the Saints. The Vigil culminated in the first Mass of Easter, with the return of the Gloria and the singing of the Alleluia, proclaiming the victory over death.

A key reform, aligned with restoring the Triduum’s evening timings, moved the celebration of the Easter Vigil to nighttime, as it is now universally observed. This timing underscores the symbolism of waiting in darkness for the light of Christ’s Resurrection. While the blessing of the New Fire and the Paschal Candle and the chanting of the Exsultet remain, the number of Old Testament readings has been adjusted; at least two are included, with the option to have up to seven, balancing tradition and pastoral needs. A significant development is the renewal of baptismal vows by the entire congregation via the sprinkling rite, emphasizing that all the faithful share in Christ’s death and resurrection through baptism. The Alleluia and Gloria are proclaimed with joy, and the use of vernacular languages has made the rich texts of the Vigil more accessible. The Easter Vigil is now understood as the “mother of all vigils,” where baptism and the Eucharist renew the Church. The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes the active participation of the laity in this central celebration.

A Unified Meaning for Today

The development of the Triduum reflects a desire to more deeply engage the faithful in the Paschal Mystery. While specific liturgical practices have evolved, the core theological truths – the institution of the Eucharist, Christ’s sacrificial death, and his glorious Resurrection – remain the theological anchors of these sacred days.

Today, the Triduum is understood as a single, unified liturgical celebration spanning three days. The shift towards evening celebrations, the increased emphasis on lay participation through readings, responses, and music, and the use of vernacular languages all contribute to a more accessible and engaging experience of these central mysteries of faith. The focus on baptismal renewal during the Easter Vigil reminds all the baptized of their participation in Christ’s Paschal Mystery.

In conclusion, the current meaning of the Triduum is enriched by understanding its historical celebration. The reforms have aimed to highlight the unity of Christ’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection, foster greater participation among the laity, and make the profound theological significance of these sacred days more readily accessible. The Triduum invites us to journey with Christ through his final days, to enter into the mystery of his sacrifice, and to celebrate the triumphant hope of his Resurrection, a hope that defines our Christian faith.

Hey there, friends. Holy Week is almost here—April 13–19, 2025 —and it’s kind of a big deal.

• A) because it’s Holy Week of course. It’s the primary week defining the source of our faith, the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. And…
• B) because it’s the first Holy Week in decades that I have not been on a parish schedule of some sort. It’s quite an adjustment.

Holy Week is the week that we walk step-by-step with Jesus through his Passion, Death, and Resurrection. It’s heavy, beautiful, and life-changing if we let it be. I’ve put together a daily reflection plan to help us dive into this sacred time with open hearts. It’s rooted in Scripture, some wisdom from St. Augustine, and the Catechism. It’s about repentance, soaking in Christ’s love, and stepping into the “newness of life” that St. Paul talks about thematically in his post-Resurrection spirituality.

No pressure—just a way to make this week count. Ready to jump in? Here’s how it goes.

Palm Sunday, April 13: The Cheers and the Betrayal

We kick off with Palm Sunday, when Jesus rides into Jerusalem to shouts of “Hosanna!”—and then the crowd flips on him. It’s a gut-punch to think about. One minute, they’re waving palms, everything is humanly glorious; the next, they’re shouting for death. And not just any death – but death by Crucifixion. Where do I betray Jesus Christ in my own life? Praising Jesus one day, then ignoring him when it’s tough? How do I experience the Holy Spirit alive in my heart, and present in my works, trials, and the joys of my life?

• Think About: How’s my loyalty to Jesus? Where do I waver?
• Read: Matthew 21:1–11 or Mark 11:1–11.
• Nod to St. Augustine: He calls Easter Jesus’ “passing from death to life” (John 10:18). That journey starts here, and it’s all his choice—love in action.
• Try This:
  • Grab a palm at Mass and let it remind you to stick with Jesus this week.
  • Pray: “Lord, give me the guts to follow you, no matter what.”
  • Jot down: Where have I said “Hosanna” but not lived it?

Monday, April 14: Jesus Means Business

On Monday, we have quite the surprise as Jesus heads straight into the Temple and turns over the tables for exchanging of currencies and religious necessities. He cleanses the temple and teaches vibrantly in faith. What virtues—integrity, humility, justice—does He want me to lean into? How will I practice those virtues in my words, in my actions, in my attitudes? He’s showing us how to live, and it’s daring.

• Think About: Which virtues do I need to work on? Where am I sadly lacking in virtue?
• Read: Mark 11:15–19 or John 12:20–36.
• Big Idea: Living in “newness of life” means picking up Jesus’ way of doing things—heart and soul.We take up our cross and head into a newness of living.
• Try This:
  • Pick one of Jesus’ teachings and let it challenge you today.
  • Pray: “Jesus, mold my heart to your truth.”
  • Choose a virtue to practice, like humility in a conversation.

Tuesday, April 15: Getting Ready for Mystery

After the dramatic events of the first two days of the week, Tuesday has been quieter yet intense. Jesus is teaching his disciples, dropping hints about his death and what’s coming. It’s like he’s inviting us to get our hearts ready for the Paschal Mystery—his sacrifice and glory. How do I open up to that?

• Think About: How can I remotely prepare – mentally, spiritually, physically, presently – to really “get” what Jesus is about to do?
• Read: John 13:31–38 or Matthew 26:1–5.
• Nod to St. Augustine: He talks about the “wondrous economy” of Christ’s mysteries—God’s plan unfolding in ways we couldn’t see until Jesus made it clear.
• Try This:
  • Reflect on the Last Supper (John 13). What’s it saying to you? Practice speaking words of virtue.
  • Pray: “Lord, show me your mysteries as I draw close.”
  • Write down one way you can say “yes” to God’s will this week.

“Spy Wednesday”, April 16: The Sting of Betrayal

Wednesday.

Years ago I was baptized on the Wednesday of Holy Week, and it holds a place in my spirit.

Judas makes his move, the betrayal happens, selling Jesus out. How do we simultaneously come to know Jesus better and betray him at the same time? This is a reality in our relationship with Jesus, because it helps to serve as an idealized way of living and acting, because we betray ourselves and others many times, in many ways, in life.

It’s a day to face the reality of sin—mine, yours, the world’s—and how it weighs on him.

• Think About: How do my choices add to Jesus’ suffering?
• Read: Matthew 26:14–25 or Luke 22:1–6.
• Nod to St. Augustine: He says we should confess our sins to “avert God’s wrath.” Sin’s no joke—it’s why Jesus is heading to the Cross.
• Try This:
  • Sit in silence for 10 minutes, picturing Jesus’ loneliness.
  • Pray Psalm 51 or another prayer of sorrow for your sins.
  • If you can, hit up confession to start fresh.
• Note – I was Baptized on Spy Wednesday back in 1961.

Holy Thursday, April 17: Love in Bread and Service

Thursday things get real. Jesus washes his disciples’ feet, institues the Priesthood, gives us the Eucharist the Bread of Life, and says, “Love one another.” Then he’s betrayed and headed off to a prison across the Maccabean stairs. How can I live that kind of love?

• Think About: What does it mean to serve like Jesus?
• Read: John 13:1–17 or Luke 22:14–20.
• Big Idea: The Catechism calls the Eucharist the heart of our faith; St. Augustine sees it as the “table of God’s mysteries” that feeds our souls.
• Try This:
  • Go to the Mass of the Lord’s Supper if you can.
  • Spend 15 minutes in adoration, just thanking Jesus for the Eucharist.
  • Do something kind—like helping a neighbor—to mirror his service.

Good Friday, April 18: The Cross Changes Everything

Good Friday is raw. Jesus suffers and dies for us. It’s the day we face the Cross head-on and realize what his love costs. It’s not just history—it’s personal. His death is for me, for you.

• Think About: How does Jesus’ sacrifice call me to change?
• Read: John 18:1–19:42 or Isaiah 53:4–7.
• Nod to St. Augustine: He says this day is “stamped with his blood.” That’s how much God loves us.
• Try This:
  • Fast and skip meat to join in Jesus’ suffering.
  • Pray the Stations of the Cross or read the Passion story.
  • Ask yourself: What does the Cross mean for my life right now?

Holy Saturday, April 19: Waiting in Hope

Saturday’s still and heavy, but there’s a spark of hope. Jesus descends to the dead—what we call the Harrowing of Hell—breaking the gates wide open. It’s a day to wait, trusting he’s about to flip the script.

• Think About: How does Jesus’ victory give me hope?
• Read: 1 Peter 3:18–20 or Matthew 27:57–66.
• Big Idea: The Catechism says Jesus brought salvation to the dead. In Eastern Orthodox churches, they’re already pulling out white vestments, celebrating the broken gates of hell.
• Try This:
  • Spend 10 minutes praying quietly, imagining Jesus’ triumph.
  • Pray: “Lord, fill me with hope for your Resurrection.”
  • Get your heart ready for Easter by thinking about renewal.

Easter Sunday, April 20: He’s Alive—Now What?

And then—boom—Easter Sunday! Jesus is risen, death is done, and everything’s new. It’s joy, it’s hope, it’s a call to live differently because he’s alive. How will that change us this week?

• Think About: How can I live the truth of the Resurrection?
• Read: John 20:1–18 or Acts 10:34–43.
• Big Idea: We’re called to walk in “newness of life,” transformed by Jesus’ victory.
• Try This:
  • Celebrate at Easter Mass with all you’ve got.
  • Pray: “Risen Lord, make me new in your love.”
  • Pick one thing—like forgiving someone—to live out Christ’s life this week.
  • List ways that you can live in “newness of life” with Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, one another.

A Few Tips to Keep It Real

• Don’t Overdo It: Pick one reflection or action each day. Small steps add up.
• Stay With It: Grab a journal to write down what hits you—prayers, insights, whatever.
• Lean Into Grace: This week’s about drawing close to Jesus. Trust he’s got you.
• Take time to be Holy.

So, that’s the plan. Print it, save it, stick it on your fridge—whatever works. Holy Week’s a chance to go deep with Jesus, to let his Passion and Resurrection sink into our bones. Let’s do this together and come out on Easter Sunday ready to live like he’s truly risen. Because he has.

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