What is Palm Sunday?

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week and commemorates Jesus Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Catholics recall Jesus riding on a donkey while crowds greeted him by waving palm branches and spreading their cloaks on the road. Catholics understand this symbolic entry as the fulfillment of many Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. During Palm Sunday Mass, Catholics receive blessed palms as a symbol of victory and joy. The readings set the stage for Holy Week, leading to Christ’s death and Resurrection. Palm Sunday serves as a prelude to the solemn observances of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and, eventually, the jubilant celebration of Easter.

What is Holy Wednesday?

Holy Wednesday, also known as “Spy Wednesday,” is the Wednesday of Holy Week in the liturgical calendar. It is associated with the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot.

What is the difference between Holy Thursday and Maundy Thursday?

“Holy Thursday” and “Maundy Thursday” refer to the same day in the liturgical calendar: the Thursday before Easter Sunday. However, the terms are often used in different Christian traditions, and there can be some variations in emphasis. “Holy Thursday” is more broadly used and is common in Roman Catholic and some Protestant churches. 

Is there Mass on Good Friday?

There is a liturgical service on Good Friday but not a Mass. This liturgy focuses on the suffering and death of Jesus. Elements include the Liturgy of the Word, the veneration of the Cross, and the distribution of Holy Communion. However, the Consecration of the Eucharist does not take place and instead uses the hosts consecrated on Holy Thursday.

How should Catholics act on Holy Saturday?

Holy Saturday serves as a bridge between the sorrow of Good Friday and the joy of Easter Sunday. It is a mysterious day of waiting and stillness. Going to Confession, praying with Scripture, and spending reflective time with family are prayerful ways to spend Holy Saturday. Embarse the silence, meditating on the events of Christ's Passion, to more readily enter into Easter with a heart prepared for the Resurrection.