Passion Week

Passion Week: A Time of Reflection and Remembrance

Passion Week, also known as Holy Week, is the most sacred period in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the final days of Jesus Christ’s life, including his triumphant entry into Jerusalem, his crucifixion, and his resurrection.

Quick Facts

When is it?: The week before Easter Sunday
Tagged as: #PassionWeek #HolyWeek
What’s the hashtag?: #PassionWeek
When was it founded?: Observed since the early days of Christianity
Who founded it?: Rooted in Christian tradition, not founded by a specific individual

History of Passion Week

Passion Week has been observed since the early days of Christianity. The term “Passion” refers to the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. Historical records show that by the 4th century, Christians were already commemorating these events with special observances and liturgies.

Timeline

Palm Sunday: Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem
Holy Monday: Cleansing of the Temple
Holy Tuesday: Teaching and debates in Jerusalem
Holy Wednesday: Judas’ betrayal
Maundy Thursday: The Last Supper
Good Friday: Crucifixion of Jesus
Holy Saturday: Jesus in the tomb
Easter Sunday: Resurrection of Jesus

Passion Week Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	April 13-20	Sun
2026	March 29-April 5	Sun
2027	March 21-28	Sun
2028	April 9-16	Sun
2029	March 25-April 1	Sun
2030	April 14-21	Sun

Observed Passion Week

Christians worldwide observe Passion Week through various religious services, traditions, and personal reflections. Many churches hold daily services, each focusing on different events from Jesus’ final week. Palm Sunday often features processions with palm branches, while Good Friday services are typically solemn and reflective.

Fasting and prayer are common practices during this week. Some Christians choose to give up certain luxuries or dedicate more time to spiritual activities. In many countries, Passion plays or reenactments of the events of Holy Week are performed.

The week culminates with Easter Sunday, celebrated as the day of Jesus’ resurrection. This joyous occasion often includes special church services, family gatherings, and festive meals.

Fun Facts About Passion Week

In some countries, entire cities shut down for Good Friday observances.
The tradition of Easter eggs originated as a symbol of new life and resurrection.
In the Philippines, some devotees participate in actual crucifixions on Good Friday.
Hot cross buns, traditionally eaten on Good Friday, have a cross on top symbolizing the crucifixion.
The Easter lily, which blooms around this time, symbolizes purity and new life in Christian tradition.

Quiz

What event marks the beginning of Passion Week?
On which day of Passion Week did the Last Supper take place?
What does the term “Passion” refer to in Passion Week?
Which day of Passion Week is also known as Maundy Thursday?
On which day of Passion Week is Jesus’ resurrection celebrated?

(Answers: 1. Palm Sunday, 2. Maundy Thursday, 3. The suffering and death of Jesus, 4. The day of the Last Supper, 5. Easter Sunday)

FAQs

What is the significance of Palm Sunday?
Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where he was greeted by crowds waving palm branches.

Why is it called “Maundy” Thursday?
“Maundy” comes from the Latin word “mandatum,” meaning commandment, referring to Jesus’ commandment to love one another.

What happens on Good Friday?
Good Friday marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is typically observed with solemn services and fasting.

Is Easter part of Passion Week?
While Easter Sunday marks the end of Passion Week, it’s often considered the start of the Easter season.

How long has Passion Week been observed?
Passion Week has been observed since the early days of Christianity, with formal observances documented as early as the 4th century.

Importance of Passion Week

Passion Week holds immense spiritual significance for Christians worldwide. It provides a time for deep reflection on the core tenets of the Christian faith, particularly the concepts of sacrifice, redemption, and resurrection.

This week allows believers to connect more deeply with their faith by following Jesus’ journey step by step. It serves as a reminder of God’s love and the ultimate sacrifice made for humanity’s salvation.

For many, Passion Week is a time of renewal and recommitment to their faith. The progression from the solemnity of Good Friday to the joy of Easter Sunday mirrors the Christian journey of struggle, perseverance, and ultimate triumph.