Dear Families of Holy Name Catholic School,

We are entering into the holiest days of the year. The triduum is one long liturgy remembering what Jesus did for us. He suffered, died, and then changed everything by rising from the dead. The triduum starts on Holy Thursday and continues through Saturday night.

I have always been struck by the strength of the women on Christ’s journey. Most of the Apostles either betrayed, denied, and/or ran away (except St. John). It was the women who accompanied Jesus while he was carrying the cross. Mother Mary, Mary Magdalene, Mary and John stood at the foot of the cross. They suffered with our Lord. Mother Mary was told that her soul would be pierced, and I cannot imagine the pain she endured watching her Son being brutally killed.

Mary Magdalene went to the tomb on Sunday morning when the Sabbath and Passover were complete. I loved the imagery of her thinking Jesus was the gardener—mostly because He was. In the beginning the Garden of Eden was a paradise. Adam and Eve turned away from God and we live in a fallen world because of it. Jesus undid all that by living, breathing, and becoming a man. He lived a sinless life and became the spotless sacrificial lamb of the Passover. Jesus was tempted in all ways, never sinned, and then offered Himself up for our sins.

Holy Thursday remembers the Last Supper and the first Eucharist. Jesus left us His own Body and Blood in the Eucharist. The Eucharist sustains us for the journey. Jesus said this is my Flesh. Take and eat it and do this in remembrance of me. This was a hard teaching and many of His followers left him, but Jesus did not change his teaching. St. Paul reminds us to eat and drink worthily. This was something the early Christians not only adopted, but embraced. We continue the Eucharist at every Mass 2000 years later.

Good Friday focuses on the immense physical suffering, but also the weight of every sin from every person. The pure love Jesus freely gives us is the ultimate invitation to join him forever in Heaven. It is our choice. Here is a song that puts Good Friday in a poetic and powerful way. “God Rested” by Andrew Peterson

Holy Saturday is the entire story of salvation is summed up in a 2.5 to 3 hour liturgy. It is simply beautiful with 7 Old Testament readings, Psalms, music, incense, Gospels, candles, confirmations, baptisms, extra blessings and one of the most enriching spiritual experiences. Starting at 9pm, it is likely not for little children, but I encourage you to attend.

I will be in Wisconsin as my future daughter in law is entering the Catholic church. She made this commitment of faith and we are so excited to be sharing it with her. Please pray for her and we celebrate.

May you encounter the Gardener this weekend and may you have a Happy Easter filled with the glory of His Resurrection.

With great joy and peace,

Nathan Vande Hey – Principal