The Evening Mass of The Lord’s Supper begins the Paschal “Triduum” – Latin for “Three Days”. These three days are the holiest in our liturgical calendar; in fact, to set them apart even more, the Church designates these three days as its own liturgical season. The three days are counted starting at sundown on Holy Thursday, thus concluding on the evening of Easter Sunday. This evening’s liturgy has no ending. The Triduum is viewed as one continuous liturgy or time of prayer.
There are many rituals that occur during tonight’s Mass...the first being the Reception of the Holy Oils that were blessed and consecrated at the Chrism Mass by Bishop McGovern. After listening to the Scriptures, we continue with the Washing of the Feet. The twelve people chosen for this ritual tonight represent our parish’s broad scope of liturgical, formation, social, outreach, and parish life ministries. This represents the Christian life of service, as is the next thing we do, a Collection for the Poor. (CRS Rice Bowls)
After communion, our main tabernacle is completely empty and the sanctuary lamp, signifying His presence, is extinguished. The Transfer of the Most Blessed Sacrament is processed to a side tabernacle. The Sacrifice of the Eucharist is not offered on Good Friday, the hosts consecrated at this Mass will be used for tomorrow’s liturgy. Next is the Stripping of the Sanctuary and Altar. The altar is stripped of candles, cloths and decorations. The church is left stark in commemoration of the Lord's Passion. There is no formal dismissal tonight, nor formal greeting tomorrow. We depart in silence.
You are invited to remain in the church for Eucharistic Adoration.
NIGHT PRAYER - 9:00 PM