The Paschal Triduum: A Journey Through Three Sacred Days
Paschal Triduum - What could those words mean? You may know that in the atrium, we often use challenging words with even the youngest children—words like liturgical, Cenacle, Jerusalem, prophecy, and Epiclesis. We also ask the children what they heard… a lot. So I challenge you—what comes to mind when you see the words Paschal Triduum? If you guessed something about that big Easter/Baptismal candle and the number three, you’re right on track. Simply put, the Paschal Triduum is the term for the last three days and services before the celebration of Easter.
The three days of the Paschal Triduum signify our beliefs as Christians. On Maundy Thursday, Jesus served his disciples by washing their feet and celebrating the Last Supper. He gave them new words: “Take, eat; this is my Body… Drink this, all of you; this is my Blood of the new Covenant.” These words are repeated by priests all over the world to remind us of the first Eucharist. The altar is stripped, preparing us for the solemnity of the day to come.
On Good Friday, the Passion and Death of Christ are read from the Gospel of John. These images are also revealed to us whenever we see stained glass windows or hear the Stations of the Cross.
The Easter Vigil on Saturday evening is an especially spectacular celebration. Outside our church, we bless and light a new Paschal Candle because Jesus’ light has returned. We enter the darkened nave, bringing the LIGHT OF CHRIST with us because JESUS IS RISEN! There are baptisms and bells, and that glorious light is everywhere! We even sing and shout that word (the one that begins with “A”) we’ve put away for so long.
Yes, Jesus died. But did he stay dead? No—He is Risen! I encourage you to bring your family to the Paschal Triduum services this year. Feel free to bring children in their pajamas if you’d like. Join us as we conclude our Lenten journey and celebrate the JOY of EASTER and CHRIST'S RISEN LIGHT!
Maundy Thursday (April 17th): 6:30 p.m.
Good Friday (April 18th): 12:00 noon
*Easter Vigil (April 19th): 7:15 p.m. Easter Vigil
*Please bring a bell to ring as we celebrate the Risen Christ!
Awaiting the Celebration with you,
Jeannie Feldman
All Saints Children’s Formation
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