Thursday, April 05, 2007

Sacred Triduum

Holy Thursday

The following is from St. Michael Center for the BVM
The last three days of the Holy Week- Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday- which is called Sacred Triduum is commemorated on April 5 to 7. This covers the three-past drama of Christ redemption.

Holy Thursday derives its English name from Mandatum (commandment) which the first words spoken by Jesus to His apostles at the last supper after he completed the washing of the feet: "I give you a new commandment: Love one another as I have loved you." (John 13:34). This day also recalls Jesus arrest and imprisonment.

Good Friday observes the death of Jesus on the cross. The church holds mourning services and is traditionally spent in fasting and prayer.

Meanwhile, Holy Saturday is sacred as the day of the Lord's rest; it has been called the "Second Sabbath" after creation. The day is and should be the most calm and quiet day of the entire Church year, a day broken by no liturgical function and is chiefly a day of solemn vigil for the Lord’s resurrection.
Prayer for the Sacred Triduum

God our Father, we are gathered here to share in supper which your only Son left to his Church to reveal his love. He gave it to us when he was about to die and commanded us to celebrate it as the new and eternal sacrifice. We pray that in this Eucharist we may find the fullness of love and life. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

For the following information on the Sacred Triduum, please click the above link:

Holy Thursday Table Blessing
Table Blessing for Holy Thursday
Family Evening Prayer for Holy Week
Prayer for Good Friday
Good Friday Table Blessing
Prayer for Holy Saturday
Holy Saturday Table Blessing
To Keep a True Lent
Prayer Before a Crucifix
Family Evening Prayer for Holy Week

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