Triduum: The Central Mystery of Our Faith

Lent is about to end tonight after the evening Mass of the Lord's Supper. The word Triduum comes from the Latin word meaning "three days." It begins the evening of Maundy Thursday and ends at Evening Prayer on Easter Sunday. We are about to enter into the next 3 days commemorating and celebrating the central mystery of our faith. The death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ leading to our redemption and salvation. The Easter Triduum rituals invites us to reflect deeper on our faith and brings about the heart of our being Christian, this speaks of the fulfillment of our mission, the victory on the cross, the salvation on His resurrection.

The Rituals of the EASTER TRIDUUM:

  
Washing of Feet: After the homily on Maundy Thursday, we imitate our master in the washing of feet. The symbol of humility and servant leadership personified. This ritual reminds us that our baptismal commitment means we are to be servants of one another. In the time of St. Ambrose in Milan, those who were baptized also had their feet washed, because of Jesus' words to Peter: "Whoever has bathed has no need except to have his feet washed" (Jn 13:10).

 
 Veneration of the Cross: As part of our observance of Good Friday, we venerate the cross on which Christ died. The veneration challenges us to be willing to accept the cross, too, for it is the only way to resurrection. Through Baptism, we shared in Christ's death that we might come to new life. Every year we are called to deepen our identification with his cross and resurrection. A call to repentance and forgiveness at its finest. A mission being accomplished with deep love for humanity, for you and me.

Waters of Baptism: The core of our celebration of the Easter Vigil is the Baptism of the elect. As we share in their joy on this holy night, we are all called to renew our own baptismal promises, to live in the joy of life in the Risen Christ. The conversion and the cleansing that fulfills our being and our Christianity.