Significance of the Holy Week celebrations in Catholic Church

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OPINION

By Rev. Fr. Dr. Ronald Kigozi

The Holy Week is a significant period in the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church.

It commemorates the final week of Jesus Christ’s earthly life, including his crucifixion on Good Friday and his resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Here’s a brief overview of the key events and celebrations during Holy Week:

1. Palm Sunday (Passion Sunday): Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, which commemorates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
   
   Many churches distribute palm branches to parishioners, symbolising the branches laid down by the crowds as Jesus entered Jerusalem 2,000 years ago before his passion, death and resurrection.
   
   The shaking of palms on Palm Sunday symbolises our love for Christ which is often inconsistent: sometimes we are for Christ and other times for the devil! The blessed palms should be taken home, where they will serve as a reminder of the victory of Christ.
   
   
2. Holy Monday, Holy Tuesday and Holy Wednesday: These days are often focused on reflection and preparation for the Easter Triduum (three days of prayer before Easter).
   
   Some churches may hold special services or events, but they are generally less elaborate than the ceremonies of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Vigil.
   
   
3. Holy Thursday: This day commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus with his disciples, during which he instituted the sacrament of the Eucharist (Holy Communion) and Holy Orders (the priesthood). He also washed the feet of his disciples as a sign of humility, love and service to humanity.
   
   Many churches hold masses where the priest washes the feet of parishioners, symbolising Jesus’ act of love, service and humility. We are all called upon to emulate these virtues.
   
   The Holy Thursday Mass is the longest mass which is concluded on Easter Vigil — the last day of the Easter Triduum.
   
   That is why it is not concluded with a sign of the cross.
   
   
4. Good Friday: This is the most solemn day of the Christian year. It commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. Many Catholic churches hold services during which the Passion narrative is read and parishioners venerate the cross. It is a day of fasting and penance for Catholics.
   
   
5. Holy Saturday: This day is a time of waiting and anticipation, as it commemorates Jesus’ time in the tomb before his resurrection. The Easter Vigil, the most significant liturgy of the Catholic Church, takes place on Holy Saturday night. It begins in darkness and culminates in the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.
   
   The vigil includes the blessing of the Easter fire, the lighting of the Paschal candle, readings from the Old Testament, the Liturgy of Baptism (where catechumens are often baptised), and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
   
   
6. Easter Sunday: Easter Sunday is the culmination of Holy Week and the most important feast day in the Christian calendar. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Many churches hold special Easter masses or services, often with joyful music and decorations. It is a time of great celebration and hope for Christians around the world.
   
   All through the Holy Week, Catholics are invited to engage in prayer, fasting, penance and reflection as they journey with Jesus through his passion, death, and resurrection. Each day of Holy Week holds special significance and offers opportunities for worship and spiritual growth.
   
   The writer is the Curate Kansanga Catholic Parish of and a lecturer St Mbaaga’s Seminary Ggaba