Passion Week Timeline: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Passion Week?

Passion Week is the final week of Lent, the period of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter. It is a time when Christians commemorate the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.

Day-by-Day Timeline

Palm Sunday (Sunday before Easter)

• Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, hailed as the Messiah.
• Crowds wave palm branches and spread cloaks on the road.

Monday of Holy Week

• Jesus curses the fig tree and cleanses the Temple of money-changers.
• He teaches the Parable of the Two Sons and the Parable of the Wicked Tenants.

Tuesday of Holy Week

• Jesus continues to teach in the Temple, including the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins.
• He prophesies the destruction of the Temple and foretells his own death and resurrection.

Wednesday of Holy Week (Spy Wednesday)

• Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' disciples, agrees to betray him to the authorities.
• Jesus prepares for the Passover meal with his disciples.

Maundy Thursday

• Jesus washes his disciples' feet, demonstrating humility and service.
• He institutes the Lord's Supper, a meal commemorating his sacrifice.
• Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane, anticipating his arrest.

Good Friday

• Jesus is arrested, tried, and crucified on Golgotha (Calvary).
• He dies and is buried in a tomb.

Holy Saturday (Silent Saturday)

• The body of Jesus rests in the tomb.
• Christians mourn and reflect on his death.

Easter Sunday

• Jesus rises from the dead, conquering death and fulfilling his prophecy.
• Christians celebrate the resurrection and the victory over sin.

Significance of Passion Week

Passion Week is a time for:

• Reflection: Christians remember the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.
• Worship: Services and liturgies focus on the events of Jesus' death and resurrection.
• Renewal: Christians renew their commitment to following Jesus and living out his teachings.
• Celebration: Easter Sunday brings joy and hope as Christians celebrate the resurrection and the new life it brings.

By understanding the timeline and significance of Passion Week, Christians can fully appreciate its impact and engage with its profound message of faith, hope, and redemption.

Passion Week Timeline: Frequently Asked Questions

1. When did Passion Week begin in 2023?

• Passion Week 2023 began on Sunday, April 2, and ended on Saturday, April 8.

2. What events took place on each day of Passion Week?

• Palm Sunday (April 2): Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem
• Monday (April 3): Jesus cleanses the temple
• Tuesday (April 4): Jesus teaches in the temple and foretells his death
• Wednesday (April 5): Judas Iscariot agrees to betray Jesus
• Maundy Thursday (April 6): Jesus celebrates the Last Supper with his disciples
• Good Friday (April 7): Jesus is crucified
• Holy Saturday (April 8): Jesus' body lies in the tomb

3. Why is Passion Week significant in Christianity?

• Passion Week commemorates the final week of Jesus' life and the events leading up to his crucifixion. It is a time for reflection, repentance, and preparation for Easter.

4. How can I observe Passion Week?

• There are many ways to observe Passion Week, such as attending church services, reading the scriptures related to the events of the week, and participating in acts of service or penance.

5. What is the difference between Passion Week and Holy Week?

• Passion Week and Holy Week are often used interchangeably, but there is a slight difference. Passion Week specifically refers to the final week of Jesus' life, while Holy Week encompasses the events of that week plus Easter Sunday.