Holy Week at St. Ann

The last three days of Holy Week are referred to as the sacred Triduum. This
period may be considered from a threefold viewpoint: First, these days bring to
a climax and a conclusion our preparation for Easter. The Church during Lent
has been preparing in gradual intensity for these holiest of days. Second,
however, these three days are already a part of Easter, for there is an inseparable
union between the death and resurrection of Christ. The two events constitute
the Easter mystery. Therefore, we pass from Holy Week to Easter Week
without any noticeable break. Holy Saturday is a resurrection and baptism
service, that is, the Easter Vigil. Third, these three days may, nevertheless, be
regarded as a unit in themselves, a true triduum or trilogy, a three-part drama on
Christ’s redemptive work: 1) the Eucharist (Holy Thursday), the triumph of the
Cross (Good Friday), and baptism and resurrection (the Easter Vigil).

View more Holy Thursday photos.