Padre’s Points to Ponder – 3/27/26
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Now that we have arrived at Palm Sunday, Holy Week is upon us. The week is the heart of the Church’s liturgical year. In these sacred days, we are drawn into the saving mysteries of Christ’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection. Each liturgy offers a unique window into this great drama of our salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ.
Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
Holy Week begins with a striking contrast. We commemorate Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem with the blessing of palms and a joyful procession, echoing the cries of “Hosanna!” Yet the tone quickly shifts as we proclaim the Passion narrative. In a single liturgy, we are reminded of the frailty of human hearts…how quickly praise can turn to rejection…and we are invited to walk with Christ into His suffering.
The Chrism Mass
Celebrated at the cathedral on Tuesday of Holy Week, the Chrism Mass gathers the priests of the archdiocese around the bishop. Here, the sacred oils to be used in Baptism, Confirmation, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Orders are blessed and consecrated. We priests will also renew our promises, making this liturgy a powerful sign of unity and a reminder that Christ continues His saving work through the sacraments.
Tenebrae
Though not as widely celebrated today, Tenebrae of “Spy Wednesday” (called so because Wednesday was the day Judas hatched the plot to betray the Lord) is a deeply moving service of prayer that reflects on the darkness surrounding Christ’s Passion. Through psalms, readings, and the gradual extinguishing of candles, we enter into the sorrow and silence of these days. The final darkness points to the apparent triumph of death, yet always with the quiet hope of the Resurrection to come.
Holy Thursday – The Mass of the Lord’s Supper
The Sacred Triduum begins with this evening Mass, commemorating the Last Supper. Here we celebrate the institution of the Eucharist and the priesthood. The washing of feet recalls Christ’s command to serve one another in humility and love. The liturgy concludes with a procession as the Blessed Sacrament is carried to a place of repose, inviting us to watch and pray with the Lord in His agony.
Good Friday – The Passion of the Lord
On this solemn day, the Church does not celebrate Mass. Instead, we gather to hear the Passion according to John, to offer solemn intercessions for the world, and to venerate the Cross. In reverent simplicity, we behold the mystery of Christ’s sacrifice, recognizing that through His suffering and death, the instrument of shame has become the source of our salvation.
The Easter Vigil in the Holy Night
This is the most beautiful and profound liturgy of the entire year. Beginning in darkness, we kindle the new fire and light the Paschal Candle, proclaiming Christ as the Light of the world. Through Scripture, we recount the history of salvation. New members are welcomed into the Church through Baptism and Confirmation, and the Eucharist is celebrated with great joy. The long night gives way to the dawn of new life.
Easter Sunday – The Resurrection of the Lord
With hearts full of joy, we celebrate Christ’s victory over sin and death. The empty tomb proclaims that life has triumphed. This is not merely a past event, but a present reality: the Risen Lord is alive and at work among us. Easter Sunday opens the door to a season of fifty days of rejoicing, as we live in the light of the Resurrection.
I invite you to participate in as many of these sacred celebrations as you can. And please hold our Elect and our candidates for full communion in the Church in your prayers!
Praised be Jesus Christ, now and forever!
All you holy saints of God, pray for us!
Peace in Christ,
Fr. Michael Silloway
Pastor