The Triduum

The Easter Triduum — Latin for "three days" — is the liturgical celebration of three days that form one continuous act of worship: Holy Thursday evening through Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday. It is the heart of the entire liturgical year and the culmination of Holy Week (CCC 1168).

Holy Thursday

The Triduum begins at the Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday evening. This Mass commemorates the institution of the Eucharist and Holy Orders at the Last Supper, and Christ's washing of his disciples' feet — his commandment of humble service. After Mass, the Blessed Sacrament is reposed for adoration until midnight.

Good Friday

On Good Friday, the Church commemorates the Passion and death of Christ. No Mass is celebrated — the Eucharist is not consecrated. The liturgy consists of the Liturgy of the Word (including the Passion narrative), the Veneration of the Cross, and the distribution of Communion from the previous day's consecration.

Holy Saturday and the Easter Vigil

Holy Saturday is a day of silent waiting. The Easter Vigil — the greatest liturgy of the year — begins after dark. It opens with the blessing of the Easter fire and the Exsultet, proceeds through extensive Scripture readings tracing salvation history, and reaches its climax in the initiation of catechumens (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist) and the proclamation of the Resurrection (CCC 1169).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Triduum counted as three days? Following the ancient Jewish reckoning in which the day begins at sunset, the Triduum begins at sunset Thursday and ends at sunset Sunday — spanning three days: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (CCC 1168).