Holy Week 2017 Must-Knows

(photo: Pixabay)
By Mei ManuelFebruary 27th, 2017

Holy Week is a very important event for Christians as this is the time where they remember the last days of Christ's life, from the time he entered Jerusalem to his death and resurrection.

This year, Holy Week begins on April 9 and ends on April 6.

If you are still confused as to the significance of each day in the Holy Week, here is a guide to explain each day's importance.

Palm Sunday:

Also known as Passion Sunday, this event is depicted in all four Gospels and highlights the time when Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem and greeted by crowds laying down palm leaves for Christ's donkey to walk over.

Holy Monday to Wednesday:

The days between Palm Sunday and Maundy Thursday are known as Holy Monday, Holy Tuesday and Holy Wednesday. What happened on these days is yet to be cited by experts and are not usually celebrated.

Maundy Thursday:

This is the day before Jesus' crucifixion is marked by the Last Supper, where Jesus lays out the model for Holy Communion. It is here that Jesus predicts the double betrayal by both Judas and Peter and his own death and resurrection.

In order to celebrate this occasion, many churches reenact the washing of feet which Christ done with his disciples' feet before the Last Supper. They also celebrate the Eucharist.

Good Friday:

In this day, many Churches remember the day Jesus died in the cross. Many churches do fasting on this day, while others reenact the final moments of Christ: from his journey to Golgotha to his death in the cross.

The day often ends with a quiet service in the evening, around the time when Jesus is believed to have died.

Easter Saturday:

The day between Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection was the Jewish Sabbath day. The gospels note how the body had to be buried before sundown on Friday to avoid the day of rest.

Easter Sunday:

The final day of Holy Week is a celebration for Christians as this is the time Jesus rose from the dead and was resurrected.

The day is the focal point in the Christian year and marks the central belief of Christianity - that God came to earth in human form, was crucified, died and was buried but on the third day rose again, defeating Satan and death.

 

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