As we stand on the cusp of the Easter Vigil tonight at 9 pm, the Notre Dame Du Laus Parish community pauses to reflect on the profound journey of the Triduum—Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the anticipation of Holy Saturday. These sacred days have drawn us deeper into the mystery of Christ’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection. Below, we share reflections on each day, the significance of our communal worship, and how these moments have stirred our hearts as parishioners. We also look forward to the joy of Easter Sunday, when we will celebrate Christ’s victory over death.
Holy Thursday: A Night of Love and Service
Significance
Holy Thursday invited us to the Last Supper, where Jesus instituted the Eucharist and the priesthood, and washed His disciples’ feet, teaching us the radical humility of love. This night reminds us that Christ’s Body and Blood are our sustenance, and His example of service is our calling.
Our Parish Experience
At Paroisse St. Georges (St. Georges Parish), we gathered for the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, witnessing our priest wash the feet of parishioners—a powerful reminder of our call to serve one another. As the Eucharist was carried to the altar of repose, many of us stayed in prayer and proceeded to Powerview Church for continued adoration, contemplating Jesus’ agony in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Reflection
Looking back, Holy Thursday challenged us to live the Eucharist beyond the church walls. How have we served others with humility since that night? The quiet moments of adoration reminded us of Jesus’ plea to “stay and watch” with Him. As we move forward, let us carry this call to love and presence into our daily lives, becoming living signs of Christ’s self-giving love.
Good Friday: Embracing the Cross
Significance
Good Friday brought us to the foot of the Cross, where we contemplated Jesus’ sacrifice for our salvation. His death reveals the depth of God’s love and the cost of our redemption, inviting us to face the reality of sin and the hope of forgiveness.
Our Parish Experience
Our community gathered for the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion, listening to the Passion narrative and venerating the Cross. We also participated in the Way of the Cross, processing from one end of town back to our church. Below, you can watch a video of this moving journey, as we carried the cross and prayed the Stations, uniting our steps with Jesus’ path to Calvary.
Reflection
Good Friday was a day of solemn gratitude and repentance. Walking the Way of the Cross through our town made Jesus’ sacrifice tangible, as we prayed amid familiar streets and faces. Venerating the Cross, we confronted our own crosses—personal struggles, losses, or sins. How have these moments softened our hearts or inspired us to seek reconciliation? Let us hold fast to the truth that Christ’s Cross is our bridge to eternal life.
Holy Saturday: Awaiting the Resurrection
Significance
Holy Saturday is a day of quiet hope, as we await Christ’s Resurrection. The Easter Vigil, beginning tonight at 9 pm, is the pinnacle of the Triduum, celebrating Jesus’ victory over death. Through the Easter fire, Scripture, and sacraments, we proclaim the light of Christ that conquers all darkness.
Our Parish Experience
Tonight, we will gather for the Easter Vigil, starting with the blessing of the fire and the Paschal Candle. We will listen to salvation history, renew our baptismal promises, and welcome new members into the church, including Kye Jones, who was baptized this morning.
Reflection
As we prepare for the Vigil, we are invited to trust in God’s promises, even in moments of waiting or uncertainty. Tonight’s liturgy will renew our identity as children of God, called to carry Christ’s light into the world. Let us ask: How can we live as people of hope, sharing the joy of the Resurrection? The Vigil is not an end but a beginning, commissioning us to be witnesses of Christ’s love.
Easter Sunday: The Joy of the Resurrection
Significance
Easter Sunday is the culmination of the Triduum, celebrating Christ’s Resurrection—the foundation of our faith. Jesus’ triumph over death assures us of God’s power to bring life from every grave, offering us hope for eternity.
Our Parish Experience
Tomorrow, Notre Dame Du Laus will gather for Easter Sunday Masses, filled with alleluias, festive music, and the proclamation of the Gospel. The church will be adorned with flowers, symbolizing the new life Christ brings, and our community will rejoice in the shared joy of the Resurrection.
Reflection
Easter Sunday calls us to live as resurrection people, radiating hope and joy. As we sing “Alleluia,” let us reflect: How can we bring Christ’s light to those who are suffering or lost? The Resurrection challenges us to see every moment through the lens of God’s victory. May tomorrow’s celebration renew our commitment to share the Good News with our families, neighbours, and beyond.
A Journey of Transformation
The Triduum has been a sacred pilgrimage for our Notre Dame Du Laus Parish family. From the humility of Holy Thursday to the sorrow of Good Friday, and now the anticipation of the Easter Vigil, we have walked with Christ and one another. As we prepare for tonight’s Vigil at 9 pm and tomorrow’s Easter Sunday celebrations, let us carry the graces of these days forward. Watch the video of our Way of the Cross procession, and let it inspire you to continue this journey of faith.
May the Resurrection fill your hearts with joy, and may our parish continue to grow as a beacon of Christ’s love. Blessed Easter to all!
With gratitude, The Notre Dame Du Laus Parish Community
