H-o-l-y W-e-e-k

"Holy Week is the week which precedes the great festival of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday, and which consequently is used to commemorate the Passion of Christ, and the event which immediately led up to it." (Catholic Encyclopedia) Read More...

The acronym H-O-L-Y W-E-E-K highlights a few of the symbols of this very important week. Follow the links for further information.

H- Holy Water - Water blessed during the Easter Vigil is known as Easter Water. It is customary for the faithful to obtain this holy water for their homes, after it is blessed on Easter Saturday.

O - Oil of Catechumens - One of the three holy oils. It takes its name from its use in the ceremonies of Baptism, a catechumen being an instructed convert about to receive that sacrament. It is also called simply oleum sanctum (holy oil). It is also used in the consecration of churches, in the blessing of altars, in the ordination of priests, and in the coronation of Catholic monarchs.

L - Lily - The "Easter Lily" is a traditional symbol of beauty, perfection, and goodness. Its flower, known as a trumpet, parallels the jubilant Alleluia proclaimed throughout the Church at the Resurrection of Christ from the dead.

Y - Ye Son and Daughters of the Lord (O filii and filiae) - Hymn used at the Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on Easter Sunday. It was written by Jean Tisserand (died 1494) and has several translations. The title given above is by E. Caswall.



W - Washing of the Feet - At the Holy Thursday Mass, the Church reenacts the moment when Jesus washed the feet of His disciples. This liturgy places a special focus on the command of Jesus to love and serve one another.

E - Eucharist and Holy Orders - On Holy Thursday, the Church commemorates the institution of these two Sacraments.

E - Easter - The holiest day of the liturgical calendar. On this day the faithful celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. "The Lord has risen indeed!"

K - Kneel before the cross and kiss it - On Good Friday, we venerate the cross. In reverencing His Cross we are, in effect, adoring Christ. "We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You because by Your Holy Cross You have Redeemed the World."