Preparing for the Sacred Triduum

As we approach the most sacred, solemn, and awe-inspiring days of the Church year, I invite you to fully participate in the beautiful liturgies of the Sacred Triduum. This THREE-DAY-day —from Holy Thursday to the Great Easter Vigil—is a powerful encounter with the heart of our faith: the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

Holy Thursday - April 17, 7 PM at SMA 

On this night, we commemorate the institution of the Eucharist and the priesthood. The Mass of the Lord's Supper invites us into the upper room where Jesus humbly washed the feet of His disciples, showing us the true meaning of service and love. After Mass, the Eucharist is removed from the tabernacle and placed in repose, signifying Jesus' journey to the Garden of Gethsemane. The altar is stripped bare, and the church becomes still and somber, inviting us to keep watch and pray. Then we will hold a night watch after Mass at St. Mary until 10:00 PM, open to all. Although there will be no Mass at OLGH or St Henry on Holy Thursday, all the altars will be stripped bare. The blessed sacrament will stay in the tabernacle at OLGH, because there is no Solemn Liturgy there on Good Friday. 

Good Friday  -April 18,  

12:30 PM at SH 

 7:00 PM at SMA  

On this solemn day, we gather to venerate the Cross and reflect on Christ's ultimate sacrifice. The church will look stark and empty—no candles, no altar cloth, and no Eucharist in the tabernacle—reminding us of the absence felt by the disciples on that dark day. The liturgy's silence and reverence speak volumes, inviting us into the profound mystery of the Saving Cross of Jesus. 

The Great Easter Vigil - April 19, 9 PM at OLGH 

The Easter Vigil is the Church's greatest and most beautiful liturgy, rich with symbolism and joy. We begin in darkness, which is gradually pierced by the NEW flame of the Paschal Candle, symbolizing the light of Christ dispelling the darkness of sin and death. The Vigil unfolds with readings that recount salvation history—from creation to Christ's resurrection—culminating in the triumphant Alleluia after the Gloria rings out and the bells joyously sound. The music will be glorious, lifting our hearts in celebration of the risen Lord. 

These sacred days are more than mere events—they are an invitation to journey with Jesus. Through the beauty of the liturgy, we are drawn deeply into the mystery of God’s love. Whether you are a lifelong parishioner or someone who has been away for a while, I urge you to come and experience the powerful grace of these holy days. 

Let us come together as a Parish Family to celebrate the Sacred Triduum. May this journey lead us closer to the heart of Christ and fill us with the joy of His resurrection. 

Yours in Christ, 

John Wright, Worship Director