HE IS RISEN
Weekly Contemplations
Your Essential Guide to the Triduum
Taking you step-by-step through the three-day celebration of the Church By Julianne Wallace, April 14, 2025
The Triduum (TRIH-du-um) is the time of the Church year when we celebrate the Passion, death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This three-day celebration begins with the Holy Thursday Mass and continues on Good Friday with the Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion. At the end of this liturgy, we leave the church in silence, waiting to celebrate the glory of our Lord’s resurrection. Then, on Saturday at sundown, the Church re-gathers to celebrate the final, and most grand moment of the Triduum: the Resurrection of our Lord.
The Triduum is somewhat like a three-day prayer marathon, and if you are a novice there may be some rituals that are unfamiliar to you. This guide will help you walk and pray through the liturgies of the Triduum.
Holy Thursday
The Mass on Holy Thursday is commonly known as the Feast of the Lord’s Supper. This Mass is a time for Catholics to remember the Last Supper, where Jesus and his apostles gathered to celebrate Passover. In the Holy Thursday celebration, two ritual actions stand out among the rest:
The Washing of the Feet
At the Last Supper, Jesus took a basin and a towel, got down on his hands and knees, and washed the feet of all of his apostles. After this action, he commanded the apostles, “I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do” (John 13:15). This is Jesus’ commandment: Just as Jesus has been a servant to his apostles, so the apostles must go out into the world and be servants to everyone around them.
At the Last Supper, Jesus took a basin and a towel, got down on his hands and knees, and washed the feet of all of his apostles. After this action, he commanded the apostles, “I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do” (John 13:15). This is Jesus’ commandment: Just as Jesus has been a servant to his apostles, so the apostles must go out into the world and be servants to everyone around them.
We are called to do the same in our daily lives. Well, we are not called literally to wash each other’s feet (though sometimes that may be the case). The action of washing one another’s feet reminds us of the call to humble servitude. Foot washing is not a re-enactment or re-creation of a past event, but rather, it is a commemorative action that reminds us that God calls us first and foremost to be servants to others in our daily lives.
The ritual washing of the feet can take place in many ways. Some churches choose to have 12 people, who represent the apostles, have their feet washed by the priest presiding over the celebration. Other churches invite the entire gathered community to have its feet washed (this particular tradition is very powerful because everyone is invited to come and have their feet washed by someone else in their community). However the ritual takes shape, foot washing should always be a reminder that Christ has called us to be servants to the entire world.
The Celebration of the Eucharist and the Eucharistic Procession
At the very first Last Supper, Jesus also instituted the Eucharist for the Church. At this Holy Thursday celebration, we are reminded of who we are in Jesus Christ and that, through the sacrament of the Eucharist, we are and we become even more the Body of Christ together.
At the very first Last Supper, Jesus also instituted the Eucharist for the Church. At this Holy Thursday celebration, we are reminded of who we are in Jesus Christ and that, through the sacrament of the Eucharist, we are and we become even more the Body of Christ together.
After the Holy Thursday celebration, there is no concluding prayer. Once the celebration of the Eucharist is completed, there is a Eucharistic Procession (where the Eucharist that is left from Communion is processed to a Chapel of Reservation). This procession to the Chapel of Reservation reminds us of Jesus’ time in the garden of Gethsemane when he prayed so fervently through the night. The entire community is invited to join in this procession and then join in the silent prayer and adoration until night prayer is prayed and the Eucharist is put in the Tabernacle. The gathered community leaves in silence, only to return in prayer the next day for the Good Friday celebration.
Reflection questions for Holy Thursday:
Who are those people who need our help the most?
Am I willing to get down on my own hands and knees and help those who are unable to help themselves?
What does the sacrament of the Eucharist mean to me?
Who are those people who need our help the most?
Am I willing to get down on my own hands and knees and help those who are unable to help themselves?
What does the sacrament of the Eucharist mean to me?
Good Friday: Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion
In this solemn celebration, we remember the Passion and Death of Our Lord. The service is marked by several important rituals, including the proclaiming of the Passion according to John, the Veneration of the Cross, an extended form of General Intercessions, and finally, the distribution of Communion (reserved from the Holy Thursday celebration of the Eucharist).
The Veneration of the Cross
It seems strange that in the Good Friday liturgy, Catholics choose to venerate, or show reverence to, the very instrument that was used to crucify Jesus. The Veneration of the Cross reminds us that through this Cross, the Glory of the resurrection emerges. So, on Good Friday, we come forward to show our great reverence and respect for the Cross. People have various traditions when they approach the Cross. Sometimes they kiss the Cross, kneel before the Cross, or even just touch it in some fashion. As you participate in this ritual, venerate the Cross in whatever way feels most normal. And most of all, just take in the experience of the gathered community coming so close to such a tragic, but integral, event in our faith.
It seems strange that in the Good Friday liturgy, Catholics choose to venerate, or show reverence to, the very instrument that was used to crucify Jesus. The Veneration of the Cross reminds us that through this Cross, the Glory of the resurrection emerges. So, on Good Friday, we come forward to show our great reverence and respect for the Cross. People have various traditions when they approach the Cross. Sometimes they kiss the Cross, kneel before the Cross, or even just touch it in some fashion. As you participate in this ritual, venerate the Cross in whatever way feels most normal. And most of all, just take in the experience of the gathered community coming so close to such a tragic, but integral, event in our faith.
The General Intercessions
If you enjoy spiritual aerobics, then this ritual is for you! In this expanded form of General Intercessions, the presider and the deacon work together to pray 10 intercessions. These intercessions are the same intercessions the entire Church prays on Good Friday, and they include praying for the Holy Church, praying for the unity of all Christians, praying for the Jewish people, praying for people who do not believe in Christ or in God, praying for people in public office, and praying for people who are suffering or facing difficult times. These prayers recognize how universal our Church is and that we should be aware of all of the faiths and traditions in the world that are different from our own.
If you enjoy spiritual aerobics, then this ritual is for you! In this expanded form of General Intercessions, the presider and the deacon work together to pray 10 intercessions. These intercessions are the same intercessions the entire Church prays on Good Friday, and they include praying for the Holy Church, praying for the unity of all Christians, praying for the Jewish people, praying for people who do not believe in Christ or in God, praying for people in public office, and praying for people who are suffering or facing difficult times. These prayers recognize how universal our Church is and that we should be aware of all of the faiths and traditions in the world that are different from our own.
Reflection questions for Good Friday:
What does the death of Jesus mean to me?
What does it mean to “Glory in the Cross”?
What does the death of Jesus mean to me?
What does it mean to “Glory in the Cross”?
The Easter Vigil
The celebration of the Easter Vigil tells the whole story of our salvation — from creation to resurrection and beyond. Because of all the ritual moments, this service tends to be on the lengthy side (an average Easter Vigil will last at least 2-2 1/2 hours). But don’t let the length of the celebration distract you from participating. The Easter Vigil includes the lighting of the Easter Fire and Paschal Candle (the large candle that we will use throughout the year), the singing of the Exsultet (the Easter Proclamation), the expanded Liturgy of the Word that traces time through Salvation History (the story of our Salvation), the Liturgy of Initiation (where new people come into the Church), and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. All these rituals come together for one purpose: to remember and recall the saving deeds of our God on our behalf. Here’s an explanation of two moments from the celebration.
The Singing of the Exsultet
The Exsultet, or the Easter Proclamation, is a hymn that is sung by a deacon, priest, or cantor. This hymn speaks of how God has interceded in our lives on our behalf. The Exsultet especially recalls the Holy Night when Jesus Christ rose from the dead. What makes this moment particularly dramatic is that the Exsultet is sung in a church lit only with the light of the Paschal Candle and other smaller candles, which people are holding. In order to pray this hymn along with the deacon, priest, or cantor, try reflecting on the words of the hymn throughout Holy Saturday.
The Exsultet, or the Easter Proclamation, is a hymn that is sung by a deacon, priest, or cantor. This hymn speaks of how God has interceded in our lives on our behalf. The Exsultet especially recalls the Holy Night when Jesus Christ rose from the dead. What makes this moment particularly dramatic is that the Exsultet is sung in a church lit only with the light of the Paschal Candle and other smaller candles, which people are holding. In order to pray this hymn along with the deacon, priest, or cantor, try reflecting on the words of the hymn throughout Holy Saturday.
The Liturgy of the Word
The Liturgy of the Word for the Easter Vigil is comprised of nine readings and seven responsorial psalms. The first reading begins with the story of Creation and then, each subsequent reading recounts the story of our faith lives through history. You’ll hear the story of Isaac and Abraham, the story of Moses and the Exodus, and more. All of these readings lead up to the singing of the Gloria when all the lights come on in the church, and then the final reading, the Resurrection of Christ, is proclaimed. Why so many readings? Again, like the singing of the Exsultet, the readings recount the many ways in which God has interceded on our behalf throughout history.
The Liturgy of the Word for the Easter Vigil is comprised of nine readings and seven responsorial psalms. The first reading begins with the story of Creation and then, each subsequent reading recounts the story of our faith lives through history. You’ll hear the story of Isaac and Abraham, the story of Moses and the Exodus, and more. All of these readings lead up to the singing of the Gloria when all the lights come on in the church, and then the final reading, the Resurrection of Christ, is proclaimed. Why so many readings? Again, like the singing of the Exsultet, the readings recount the many ways in which God has interceded on our behalf throughout history.
Most churches do not do the entire set of nine readings (for time’s sake). But keep in mind that the point is to recall how God has interceded on humanity’s behalf from the very beginning of time and that through this Easter Vigil, we celebrate that God is present and always working in our lives, even still today.
Reflection questions for the Easter Vigil:
How has God interceded in my life?
After hearing the Resurrection story, what events do I see in my own life that need new life, in need of resurrection?
How can I carry on the story of the resurrection to others?
How has God interceded in my life?
After hearing the Resurrection story, what events do I see in my own life that need new life, in need of resurrection?
How can I carry on the story of the resurrection to others?
Easter
Throughout these three days, we experience the highs and lows in our faith, ending with the ultimate high — the new life of the resurrection. The Easter Season begins with the Easter Vigil, and we enter a time (50 days) when endless “Alleluias” will ring out throughout all of our liturgical celebrations. May you experience the joy of new life in your own way this Easter Season. Have a happy and blessed Easter!
Readings
READINGS FOR April 20, 2025
EASTER SUNDAY OF THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD
1st Reading: Acts of the Apostles 10:34a, 37-43 Peter preached about Jesus’ baptism, the anointing with the Holy Spirit, works of kindness and healing, and his crucifixion and resurrection from the dead. All who believe in him are forgiven.
Responsorial Psalm: "This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad! This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad!”
2nd Reading: Colossians 3 1-4
Think about what is above. When Christ appears, then you shall appear with him in glory.
Gospel Acclamation
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! “ Christ, our paschal lamb, has been sacrificed; let us then feast with joy in the Lord.” Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Gospel: John 20 1- 9
Mary Magdalene and the disciples went to the tomb and found it empty. They did not yet understand that Jesus would rise from the dead.
Prayers of the Faithful
EASTER
PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL
1) Let us pray for the Church:
Almighty God, may your Church and her leaders, be dead to sin and alive in Christ Jesus. Help us all to believe and to hope in your promises.
We pray to the Lord . . .
2) Let us pray for a new order of peace and justice:
Father of Jesus, may the life of your Risen Son be the
cornerstone upon which the nations build a new
world. Bring peace to our brothers and sisters whose countries have been ravaged by war.
We pray to the Lord . . .
3) Let us pray for the newly professed:
Loving Creator who raised Jesus from the dead, may our newest members be intent on things above. Keep St. Anne Parish always in your love.
We pray to the Lord . . .
4) Let us pray for the sick of our community:
May our sick members know the healing power that flows from Christ's resurrection. We pray especially for…
Ashley Shaffer
Bronwen Hintz
Megan Patnaude
Tasha Kann
Matthew Lipchinski
Mary Grocott
Stephanie Ashby
We pray to the Lord . . .
5) Let us remember the dead:
May our loved ones sing Alleluia forever in your presence, especially all of our parishioners and family members who have died since last Easter.
7:30 p.m. John Battani
8:30 a.m.—Nicolo & Theresa Genovese
10:30 a.m.—Tyler Bonner, Jonathan Davis
We pray to the Lord . . .
COUNTDOWN TO CANNONIZATION
April 27, 2025
Walk with Carlo Towards Canonization
Carlo Acutis showed us that sanctity doesn't require extraordinary gifts—just extraordinary love. As the Church prepares to declare him a saint, you're invited to join our Countdown to Canonization journey! From now until April 27th, walk alongside the first millennial saint—a regular teenager who dared to live for eternity.
In many ways, Carlo Acutis was like countless other teenagers—finding joy in video games, soccer, and the companionship of his faithful dog. Yet beneath this ordinary exterior burned a remarkable love for Jesus, especially in the Eucharist.
From his early years, Carlo understood that holiness isn't found in grand gestures but in everyday moments lived with exceptional love. He attended Mass daily, spent time in Adoration, and used his computer skills to share the beauty of faith. His joy touched everyone around him, his kindness was genuine, and his purpose clear: to bring others closer to Jesus.
"Being always united with Jesus is my life program," Carlo once said. He discovered holiness in the simple rhythms of daily life: greeting others warmly, choosing virtue when faced with temptation, and offering small difficulties with love. His example teaches us that sanctity isn't some distant ideal—it's woven into our everyday experiences. Like Carlo, we are all invited to let Christ transform us, one moment at a time.
From his early years, Carlo understood that holiness isn't found in grand gestures but in everyday moments lived with exceptional love. He attended Mass daily, spent time in Adoration, and used his computer skills to share the beauty of faith. His joy touched everyone around him, his kindness was genuine, and his purpose clear: to bring others closer to Jesus.
"Being always united with Jesus is my life program," Carlo once said. He discovered holiness in the simple rhythms of daily life: greeting others warmly, choosing virtue when faced with temptation, and offering small difficulties with love. His example teaches us that sanctity isn't some distant ideal—it's woven into our everyday experiences. Like Carlo, we are all invited to let Christ transform us, one moment at a time.
Holiness isn't about being flawless—it's about being faithful. Carlo embodied this truth. He believed everyone is called to be a saint, not by escaping the world but by transforming it through love. He made daily choices to serve God and others: helping those in need, defending the bullied, and treating everyone with kindness. His life reminds us that sanctity isn't reserved for the few—it's an invitation extended to all of us, here and now.
Carlo wasn't perfect, but he was persistent. When he fell short, he didn't dwell in disappointment—he sought forgiveness in Confession and continued striving for virtue. His journey assures us that holiness remains possible even amid our failures, as long as we keep turning back to God. Sanctity seeks not those without flaws but those with the courage to begin again.
Carlo wasn't perfect, but he was persistent. When he fell short, he didn't dwell in disappointment—he sought forgiveness in Confession and continued striving for virtue. His journey assures us that holiness remains possible even amid our failures, as long as we keep turning back to God. Sanctity seeks not those without flaws but those with the courage to begin again.
Carlo called the Eucharist his "highway to heaven"—the one treasure that truly satisfies the human heart. He recognized that when we place the Eucharist at the center of our lives, everything else finds its proper place. His deep love for Christ's presence invites us to discover this same truth.
Throughout history, every saint has been drawn to the Eucharistic mystery. Carlo reminds us that holiness comes not from our own strength but from being filled with Christ's presence. In those moments before the Blessed Sacrament or in receiving Holy Communion, we are transformed from within. Carlo chose to live for heaven by making the Eucharist his heart's compass. Will we follow his example?
Ask yourself, "Do I truly believe in Christ's presence in the Eucharist? How might I deepen my devotion?"
Blessed Carlo, kindle in my heart a deeper love for the Eucharist. May I hunger for Jesus as you did, and may each day bring me closer to heaven. Amen.
Throughout history, every saint has been drawn to the Eucharistic mystery. Carlo reminds us that holiness comes not from our own strength but from being filled with Christ's presence. In those moments before the Blessed Sacrament or in receiving Holy Communion, we are transformed from within. Carlo chose to live for heaven by making the Eucharist his heart's compass. Will we follow his example?
Ask yourself, "Do I truly believe in Christ's presence in the Eucharist? How might I deepen my devotion?"
Blessed Carlo, kindle in my heart a deeper love for the Eucharist. May I hunger for Jesus as you did, and may each day bring me closer to heaven. Amen.
The Church stands at the threshold of a historic moment—the canonization of a saint from our modern era! How will you mark this occasion? Perhaps by attending Mass, gathering with friends, or simply offering prayers of gratitude for Carlo's witness.
Let these days be filled with joyful anticipation. Heaven welcomes a new saint—one whose life mirrors our contemporary journey.
Let these days be filled with joyful anticipation. Heaven welcomes a new saint—one whose life mirrors our contemporary journey.
-Busted Halo
On behalf of St. Anne Parish, we wish to thank all those volunteers who assisted in making the Easter Egg Hunt tradition wildly successful again this year! Special thanks to the Easter Bunny for making an appearance and Marianne Boesch-West for spreading Easter joy throughout the community with all the special activities that were provided.
Announcements
- We wish to thank all those who have helped to make our Holy Week and Easter services meaningful and beautiful here at St. Anne's this year. A special word of gratitude goes out to those who cleaned the sanctuary, to our music director Laura, accompanist Denise, choir members, lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, Mass Stewards, altar servers, and ushers. Many, many thanks to all of you.
- Next weekend we will have the Sacred Heart Icon and the Knights will lead us in a holy hour after 10:30 Mass..
- The parish offices will be closed Monday, April 21, through Friday, April 25th, and reopen on Monday, April 28th.
- Please take home a copy of the Little White Book for Easter as a gift.1 per family, please.
- The last day to purchase tickets for the May 2 fundraiser - "and They're Off!" will be Friday, April 25, Online, as the parish offices will be closed.
Andy’s Attic - Spring Garden & Outdoor Supplies Sale
Come and see hundreds of treasures to make your gardens and outdoor spaces more beautiful! 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Thursday, April 24. Friday, April 25. Saturday, April 26. St. John’s Church 505 S. Dayton St. Davison, MI
Fran VanHaaften, Andy’s Attic Volunteer Home phone: 810-660-7025
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