EASTER

 

Easter is the time in the church’s year when we reflect on Jesus' death on the cross, we remember his institution of the Eucharist and we celebrate His resurrection and ascension into Heaven.

The Easter Triduum

The Easter Tridium is the most important time of the church year. It begins with the evening Mass of Holy Thursday, reaches its high point in the Easter Vigil, and closes on Easter Sunday evening
 

Holy Thursday: When Jesus, instituting the Eucharist,  anticipated the gift he would make of Himself on the cross. His command to serve others is dramatically recalled this night in the ceremony of the washing of the feet, which He performed in the upper room for His disciples.

Good Friday: The Good Friday rites centre on the reading of the Passion of Jesus. An image or relic of the Cross is venerated this day. It is a day of fasting and quiet mourning.

The Easter Vigil: The Easter Vigil is the high point of the Easter Triduum celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus with a rich display of symbols, rites and readings.  The vigil opens with a service of light; a sign of Christ, "the Light of the World," and celebrates the victory of light over darkness. A series of readings recall the great interventions of God in history, from creation to the redemption of Israel from Egypt, and ends with the story of Jesus' resurrection. Those preparing for Baptism then receive the Sacrament of Initiation. The blessed water sprinkled over the congregation brings to mind and renews the promises made at their baptism.

 

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