Holy Week Explained
Holy Week is the final week of Lent and the heart of the Christian story. It invites us to walk with Jesus through the final days of his earthly ministry—moving from celebration and service to the cross, and finally to the hope of the resurrection.
- 2026 dates: Palm Sunday (March 29) through Easter Sunday (April 5)
- Purpose: To remember, reflect, and worship as we follow Jesus through these days
- Service details: Shared on the Holy Week and Easter pages as the week approaches
Why Holy Week Matters
Holy Week helps us slow down and pay attention to the love of Christ—love that serves, suffers, and saves. These days are not simply historical moments; they shape how we understand grace, forgiveness, and hope.
You do not need to know all the traditions to participate. You are welcome to come, listen, and reflect at your comfort level.
The Days of Holy Week
Below is a simple explanation of the key days many churches observe. Each day highlights a part of the story and invites us into prayer and reflection.
Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday remembers Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, when crowds welcomed him with palms and praise. It holds both joy and tension—celebration at the beginning of a week that will lead to the cross.
- Theme: Welcoming Jesus as King
- Invitation: Praise God, and ask what it means to follow Jesus faithfully
Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday remembers Jesus’ final meal with his disciples and his commandment to love one another. It is a day focused on humble service, sacrificial love, and the gift of communion.
- Theme: Love expressed through service
- Invitation: Receive Christ’s love and practice it with others
Good Friday
Good Friday remembers the crucifixion of Jesus. It is a solemn day that invites us to reflect on the cost of love and the depth of grace. We remember the cross not with despair, but with reverence.
- Theme: Christ’s sacrifice and redeeming love
- Invitation: Reflect, pray, and give thanks for grace
Holy Saturday
Holy Saturday is the day of waiting—between loss and hope, sorrow and resurrection. It reminds us that God is still at work even when everything feels quiet.
- Theme: Waiting in faith
- Invitation: Trust God in the “in-between” moments
Easter Sunday
Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ—the victory of life over death and the foundation of Christian hope. It is a day of joy, worship, and new beginnings.
- Theme: Resurrection and new life
- Invitation: Worship with joy and receive the promise of hope
How to Participate
You can participate in Holy Week in simple ways—through worship, prayer, scripture, and reflection. If you are new to church or returning after time away, you are welcome here.
Attend Worship
Watch for service details on the Lent and Easter pages and on Facebook as Holy Week approaches.
Reflect at Home
Choose one day this week to read a gospel passage and sit quietly with what you notice.
Questions or want to help?
If you have questions about Holy Week or would like to get involved with seasonal worship, we would love to hear from you.