EASTER TRIDUUM
Sacred Triduum is the time when the Church celebrates the Last Supper, Passion, Death and Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ. I always look forward to this time because as the Church puts it, this is the central celebration of the entire liturgical calendar. Actually, even if the Triduum has not yet concluded, I start planning for the next year. I attend celebrations for the Triduum at the San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish.
The Triduum is actually part of the Holy Week. The Week starts with Passion Sunday [commonly, Palm Sunday]. I usually go to the blessing of Palms at 7:30 am and go to mass at 8:00 am. From Holy Monday to Holy Wednesday occurs the chanting of the Pasyon. The Pasyon or Pabasa is a long narrative poem that tells the story of the Creation, Jesus’ life and passion, and St. Helena’s quest for the Holy Cross. I have tried singing the Pasyon [just two pages] in a kubol. On Holy Tuesday, my aunts and I join the Stations of the Cross around the San Rafael Arkangel Parish. That is around two in the afternoon and ends at around four, after which Mass will begin.
The Triduum is actually part of the Holy Week. The Week starts with Passion Sunday [commonly, Palm Sunday]. I usually go to the blessing of Palms at 7:30 am and go to mass at 8:00 am. From Holy Monday to Holy Wednesday occurs the chanting of the Pasyon. The Pasyon or Pabasa is a long narrative poem that tells the story of the Creation, Jesus’ life and passion, and St. Helena’s quest for the Holy Cross. I have tried singing the Pasyon [just two pages] in a kubol. On Holy Tuesday, my aunts and I join the Stations of the Cross around the San Rafael Arkangel Parish. That is around two in the afternoon and ends at around four, after which Mass will begin.
MAUNDY THURSDAY
At four in the afternoon, my dad and I attend the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper. This Mass commemorates the Last Supper of Christ, His washing of the Apostle’s feet, and the founding of the Priesthood. After the Mass, the Eucharist is solemnly reposed. Moreover, at seven in the evening, ma, dad, and I will go back to the Church to visit Christ present in the Eucharist.
GOOD FRIDAY
At twelve midnight, after the vigil has ended, the Stations of the Cross around the whole parish will begin. It usually ends at two in the morning. My dad and I will usually join this activity.
Early in the morning, around six or later, my ma and I will visit our relatives at San Rafael and we will watch the flagellants. They are penitents carrying crosses, making their backs bleed then strike them with bamboo strips, or even nail themselves to crosses.
By 2:30 pm, I am off to church to attend the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion. Do not be deceived with the term, this is not of a joyful note but of mourning and sorrow because of our sins crucified our Lord. This liturgical action is composed of the Liturgy of the Word, Veneration of the Cross, and only Holy Communion, which starts at three in the afternoon. My friends usually accompany me; because I usually get there earlier than they do, they would have to look for me. Before the celebration, the Siete Palabras (reflections on the Seven Last Words) occur. At six or so, my friends and I will join the procession around the parish.
Early in the morning, around six or later, my ma and I will visit our relatives at San Rafael and we will watch the flagellants. They are penitents carrying crosses, making their backs bleed then strike them with bamboo strips, or even nail themselves to crosses.
By 2:30 pm, I am off to church to attend the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion. Do not be deceived with the term, this is not of a joyful note but of mourning and sorrow because of our sins crucified our Lord. This liturgical action is composed of the Liturgy of the Word, Veneration of the Cross, and only Holy Communion, which starts at three in the afternoon. My friends usually accompany me; because I usually get there earlier than they do, they would have to look for me. Before the celebration, the Siete Palabras (reflections on the Seven Last Words) occur. At six or so, my friends and I will join the procession around the parish.
HOLY SATURDAY
At exactly seven in the evening, ma and I are already seated in the Church waiting for the Easter Vigil to begin at eight. The ceremonies start outside with the Blessing of Fire, and then the Liturgy of the Word happens. After that, the Liturgy of Baptism and Eucharist take place. After the Vigil, the Salubong will happen.
EASTER SUNDAY
A day of rest and of celebrating the love of the Father, Risen Lord, and the Holy Spirit.
Now, if you are wondering where was Tella (my grandmother) during the whole Triduum, she is at home watching TV masses. She has difficulty in walking so she would rather stay inside. Nevertheless, when I was young, she was the one I was with during the whole Triduum.
Written on the feast of St. Louis IX, 3rd class feast, A.D. MMVIII.
Now, if you are wondering where was Tella (my grandmother) during the whole Triduum, she is at home watching TV masses. She has difficulty in walking so she would rather stay inside. Nevertheless, when I was young, she was the one I was with during the whole Triduum.
Written on the feast of St. Louis IX, 3rd class feast, A.D. MMVIII.
