|
The Liturgical Year: The Triduum
The three days of the Easter Triduum begin with the evening Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday, and conclude with evening prayer on Easter Sunday. All of the liturgies of the Triduum are tied to the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. In this way the faithful can journey with Jesus to the cross, to resurrection and new life. The message that Christ has died, Christ is risen, and Christ will come again are at the center of these holy days. The color for the Triduum is red.
On Holy Thursday the evening Mass is, first of all, the memorial of the institution of the Eucharist. The Mass of the Lord's Supper is also the memorial of the institution of the priesthood, by which Christ's mission and sacrifice are perpetuated in the world. The Mass on Holy Thursday is also a memorial of that love by which the Lord loved us "even to death". This is dramatically manifested through the foot washing which follows the Liturgy of the Word.
On Good Friday the Church celebrates the "Liturgy of the Lord's Passion." This is not a Mass. The service consists of the Liturgy of the Word, the Veneration of the cross, and the Communion Rite. There are no Introductory Rites, no Liturgy of the Eucharist and no Concluding Rites.
The Easter Vigil celebrates the first light of resurrection and salvation. The new Paschal candle is carried into the church, as are the holy oils used throughout the year. For the first time since Lent began the alleluias are sung in honor of the Risen Christ. New Catholics are initiated through the reception of Baptism, Holy Eucharist, and Confirmation.
Websites for Feast Day Information
www.catholic.org
www.catholic-pages.com
www.catholic-forum.com
www.americancatholic.org
Parents, Teachers, and Catechists
Please refer to the Celebrate book (Grade K-6) included with Christ Jesus, the Way for further information about the Liturgical Year, saints, prayer services, and activities for classroom and home.
Lectionary Link
Please refer to the Lectionary Key on this website for the appropriate readings for the Triduum.
Back To Top |
