Triduum

What is Triduum?

Triduum is a three-day liturgy that commemorates the events of Jesus’ Passion, Death, and Resurrection. It follows Palm Sunday and lasts from the evening of Holy Thursday to the evening of Easter Sunday, marking the end of Lent and ushering in a new season of hope and joy.

Catholics observe Triduum as the summit of the church year with the following special liturgies:

PALM SUNDAY

Procession with palm branches to recall Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem
Proclamation of the Passion story

HOLY THURSDAY

Commemoration of the establishment of the Eucharist at the Last Supper, the first Mass
Presentation of holy oils blessed by the Bishop
Washing of the feet as a reminder of Christ’s love for us
Adoration and Night Prayer recalling Christ’s prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane

GOOD FRIDAY

Proclamation of Jesus’ arrest, trial, crucifixion, and death
Veneration of the holy cross
Day ends with an ecumenical Tenebrae Service
Tenebrae – meaning “shadows” or darkness” – is a candlelight service of contemplative prayer, music, and scripture reflecting on the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross; all are welcome

EASTER VIGIL

Most sacred night of the church year
Begins in darkness
Blessing of the Easter Fire and lighting of the Paschal Candle
Singing of Exultet, the proclamation of the Resurrection
Old Testament readings and Psalms retracing the story of salvation
Blessing of the Easter Water
Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation for adults

EASTER SUNDAY

Celebrates Jesus’ Resurrection
Renewal of our baptismal promises and sprinkling of the congregation with the Easter Water
Followed by the Easter Season, 50 days of rejoicing, ending on Pentecost Sunday