Loving God,

as we enter Holy Week, we pray that it will be a time for us to grow as disciples.  May we know deep in our hearts the immensity of your love for us.  May our hope be rekindled in the midst of our own joys and sorrows, knowing that nothing can separate us from the love of Jesus the Crucified and Risen One.  Amen

Holy Week ceremonies are the most important and holiest time in the Church year. Holy Week began with Palm Sunday, last weekend, which introduces Jesus as King of Israel. In the liturgy of Palm Sunday, we remember Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem in order to pass from this world to the Father. 

Holy Thursday we celebrate the beginnings of the Eucharist. During the Mass, today, the priest re-enacts Jesus' washing the feet of his apostles at the Last Supper. This is a reminder that the Church is there to serve in the same way that Jesus took care of God's people.

Good Friday liturgy reminds us that Jesus descended into the darkness of sin and death for our sake, even though he was without sin. It is a day of prayer and reflection when we remember is a special way Jesus' death on the cross.

The Easter Vigil Mass is the most majestic of all the Masses in the Church's year, when we celebrate Jesus' resurrection - his victory over death! It is a time of great joy.

May you take some time this Easter to remember God's love for us all.