As we enter into Holy Week in this Jubilee Year of Hope, the faithful of the Diocese of Brooklyn are called to immerse themselves in the paschal mystery with renewed fervor.
This sacred time, which also concludes the Lenten season, is not merely a historical commemoration; it is a living encounter with Christ, who continues to walk with his Church through suffering, death, and resurrection.
The Sacred Triduum is a moveable observance recalling the passion, crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, as portrayed in the canonical Gospels. The Sacred Triduum is a three-day period — be-ginning on the evening of Holy Thursday, continuing on Good Friday, and culminating with the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday —that is the heart of the Christian liturgical year.
Each moment draws us deeper into the mystery of our salvation.On Holy Thursday, we witness Christ’s humility in the washing of feet and his gift of the Eucharist, the source and summit of our faith. Good Friday confronts us with the reality of sin and the depth of divine love, as Christ offers himself for the redemption of the world. Then, in the darkness of the Easter Vigil, the light of the risen Christ pierces the night, dispelling despair and renewing our hope and faith.
This Jubilee Year of Hope invites us to embrace these sacred days with hearts open to transformation. Hope is not mere optimism; it is the confident trust that God’s love triumphs over sin and death. In a world marked by division, suffering, and uncertainty, Holy Week reminds us that the cross is not the end of the story resurrection and new life await.
In the spirit of this sacred season, let us reflect on the words of Pope Francis, who reminds us that “Holy Week is a time of grace that the Lord gives us to encounter Jesus, as well as to show others the light and joy of our faith.”
This Holy Week invites us to embrace love and God’s tenderness in our interactions with others, demonstrating respect and patience as we journey together. Let’s stay open to the Lord’s guidance. Let his light shine through us and show the way for those around us. By doing this, we can truly reflect the hope and joy of this Jubilee Year.
In our parishes across Brooklyn and Queens, let us approach the Sacred Triduum not as spectators but as wholly immersed participants in the drama of salvation. Let us renew our commitment to prayer, repentance, and charity so that we may emerge from these holy days as authentic witnesses of Christ’s victory over death.
May this Holy Week be a time of pro-found grace for the Church in Brooklyn and Queens, and may the risen Lord strengthen our hope so that we may proclaim with conviction: Christ Christ is risen! Alleluia, Alleluia!