Holy Week
Great Monday is dedicated to the creation of the
world, of Heaven and Earth, as the foundation of Christ’s Second Creation. We recall the fig tree that did not bear
fruit and was condemned by Christ (Matt.
Great Tuesday recalls the parable of the wise and
foolish maidens who waited for their bridegroom without enough oil for their
lamps (Matt 25:1-13). We pray and wait, spiritually preparing ourselves to
receive Christ while recognizing we are all sinners.
Great Wednesday we recall the fallen woman who
anoints Christ with costly oil and kisses his feet, in contrast to Judas who
betrayed Christ for money (Matt. 26:3-16).
Maundy Thursday marks the first Holy Communion,
which Christ distributed to His 12 apostles at the Last Supper. During the
Passover Meal, Christ broke and distributed unleavened bread and passed the
wine. He told the Apostles that this was His Body and Blood of the New
Covenant. In the Evening, the service of the Washing of the Feet takes
place in memory of the Lord's example on Holy Thursday. Jesus washed His
disciples' feet, setting an example of humility and love for the earliest
members of the Church. At night, an all-night vigil called Khavaroom (darkness) is kept in memory of the last night of
our Lord on earth when Jesus prayed in the
Good Friday is the most solemn and sad day for
Christians, when the suffering, crucifixion and death of Jesus are recalled. In
the evening, at the burial service, a replica of a tomb is placed in the
chancel of the church. It is adorned
with flowers and during the service is taken in procession around the church.
As they leave, the faithful approach the tomb, kiss the Bible and take a
flower.
Holy Saturday (Easter Eve) is dedicated to the Saviour’s burial and the sealing of the tomb. The
Divine Liturgy, called Jurakalooytz (Candlemass), is celebrated at the end of the day, when
every lamp was lit to signify the beginning of a new day. The mystery of salvation
in the Resurrection of Christ is celebrated.
Lights are dim until Isaiah 60 is read, then they are suddenly turned on
and the joy of Easter Eve is begun.