We begin outside for the blessing of the palms, before processing to the Church, in remembrance of Christ's entry into Jerusalem. In the Mass we hear the Passion Gospel proclaimed, with the different parts voiced by members of the congregation and the part of the crowd read by all of us: a dramatic way to enter into the story at the beginning of Holy Week!

The Mass of Maundy Thursday captures the bitter-sweet mood of that night when Christ shared his Last Supper with his disciples. Feet are washed in imitation of Jesus' act of service. Mass ends abruptly with the stripping of the church, the Sacrament is taken to the Chapel which has been transformed into the Garden of Gethsemane, and a Watch is kept into the night. This is one of the most dramatic liturgies of the year.

The day of the Lord's death upon the cross: in this solemn liturgy we come before the image of Christ upon the cross and kiss or touch it. We receive Holy Communion from the Sacrament consecrated the evening before.

Alleluia! Christ is risen! We celebrate with joy that Jesus is alive, and in the Mass we renew our baptismal promises.