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Paschal Triduum’s Purpose

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Nathan Mitchell, in his column, The Three Days of Pascha, Assembly (Volume 18:1) asks if the Sacred Paschal Triduum (Holy Thursday evening through Evening Prayer on Easter Sunday) is really about focusing on merely the historical events of Jesus’ passion, death, and resurrection? To be sure, he contends, the historical events are important as we commemorate what is so central to our faith?  But he continues, “precisely because these faith-anchoring events are historical, however, they cannot be repeated or ‘reenacted.’” He explains further, the various liturgies’ ultimate purpose is not to retrace or relive the last hours of Jesus’ life – nor to catch sight of him emerging from the tomb at Easter’s dawning. They celebrate what is now happening among us as a people called to conversion, gathered in faith, and gifted with the Spirit of holiness.” As we enter these central mysteries of our Catholic faith, may we recognize in our hearts the compassion of Christ and wait in joyful hope until he comes again.  Meanwhile, may we identify with the Risen Lord in the breaking of the bread and be courageous as we participate in His kingdom of truth, justice, and peace.  May the Risen Lord bless you and your loved ones throughout these most sacred days.

In His Sorrowful Passion and Glorious Resurrection,

Fr Gurnick Signature