During Holy Week a special service is held within mass which includes:- The Reinstitution of the Eucharist, Ministers of the Parish, its also the final before Good Friday.
Friday: this day is known as Good Friday. This is because its the day that Jesus sacrificed himself for us. The service that usually takes place is called the Stations of the Cross. Prayers are said at each station as Jesus' last hours on Earth are remembered. Furthermore a special service is held called "The Veneration Of The Cross". This is when all the statues in the church are covered over. The consecrated host is no longer in the Tabernacle. Also normally there is a silent pain for one or two minutes at three o'clock. Part of the service includes the kissing of Jesus' feet on the cross. All is dark and no flowers are on the alter, this is to mark Jesus' death on the cross when he saved mankind.
Sunday: Easter Sunday, this begins at the Easter Vigil on the Saturday. The church is in darkness. Prayers are said and everyone is given a candle which is lit from a special flame. As the final candle is lit, the gloria is read and the church lights are turned back on. The church is decorated in the colours of Easter and the Ressurection, which are gold and white. The alter cloth, flowers etc are all in gold and white.
Other things that occur in the Easter Vigil include adult baptism, when those who wish to join the faith as an adult can. The Pascal Candle is put together and the holy water that is used throughout the parish is blessed. Masses are held all through Easter Sunday.
Easter eggs are given on easter sunday to the children. They signify, and celebrate new life, the start of spring and the ressurection. Other things are also given in celebration such as cards and bunnies. Some people say Easter, like many other Public holidays, has become too commercialised and that the true meaning of the celebration is lost. I agree with this view, because I find it disgusting that large companies have hijacked Jesus' sacrifice in order to make money.
Easter is a time to remember, and recognise Jesus' life and teachings. It is the most important time of the year to the catholic church.
