We are in the midst of Holy Week, a time to really center our focus from this Lenten season on the events surrounding Christ’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection. Throughout Lent, we have been able to sacrifice, give alms, and pray for the needs of others and the Church. 

After accompanying Christ on Palm Sunday through the streets of Jerusalem, we now have the opportunity to prepare our hearts for the events that take place after the Last Supper.

4 things to do this Holy Week to prepare for Easter:

1. Confession – Receiving the Sacrament of Penance is a powerful way of preparing for Easter. By seeking the graces and forgiveness from this Sacrament, we better understand the love which Jesus had for us as he embraced his Cross.
2. Reflecting with Art – Many artists have depicted the events of Holy Week, each focusing on different aspects of the suffering and total sacrifice of Christ on the Cross. A thoughtful activity to do with your family is to choose a few pieces of art and reflect on them, discussing the meaning, the tone, and the emotion behind each painting. This visual activity may help you and your children to place yourselves in the midst of the scenes of Jesus’ life.
3. Bring a flower to Our Lady – Show a sweet affection for Mary by bringing her a flower and placing it at the base of her statue in your home or at church. It provides a moment of devotion and gives your family a chance to reflect on Mary’s love for us as her children.
4. Attend the Triduum – The Triduum is Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday. It is one liturgy that flows from the Last Supper to Christ’s crucifixion to his Resurrection. If you and your family have never attended this liturgy, it is a wonderful experience and potentially a new tradition you can begin! 

May this Holy Week be a time for reflection and preparation for Easter. Begin new traditions that will deepen your understanding of the Cross and Resurrection!