As the Orthodox Christian community embarks on the final stretch of their 40-day Lenten journey, they will be observing Holy Week in April 2025. This significant period is a time of reflection, prayer, and preparation for the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which will be celebrated on Easter Sunday.

Understanding Holy Week

Holy Week, also known as Great Week, is a period of great spiritual significance in the Orthodox Christian calendar. It commemorates the last days of Jesus Christ’s life on earth, from his triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday to his crucifixion and burial. The week is marked by a series of sacred services and rituals, each highlighting a different aspect of Christ’s journey to the cross.

Key Events of Holy Week

• Palm Sunday: The festivities begin on Palm Sunday, which celebrates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Orthodox Christians attend church services, where they are given palm branches or leaves to symbolize the branches waved by the crowds as Jesus entered the city.
• Holy Monday to Holy Wednesday: These days are marked by special services and the reading of the Twelve Gospels, which recount the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion.
• Holy Thursday: On this day, Orthodox Christians commemorate the Last Supper, where Jesus instituted the sacrament of Holy Communion. The service includes the washing of feet, symbolizing Jesus’ act of humility and service.
• Good Friday: This somber day marks the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. Orthodox Christians attend services, where they venerate the cross and participate in the burial service of Christ.
• Holy Saturday: On this day, Orthodox Christians wait in anticipation of Christ’s resurrection, attending a service that includes the reading of the Old Testament and the chanting of hymns.

Preparation for Easter

Throughout Holy Week, Orthodox Christians prepare for the glorious celebration of Easter, also known as Pascha. They continue to fast, pray, and attend church services, seeking to deepen their spiritual connection with God. The week culminates in the midnight Easter service, where the resurrection of Jesus Christ is proclaimed, and the faithful gather to celebrate with hymns, candles, and the breaking of the fast.

A Time for Reflection and Renewal

Holy Week is a poignant reminder of the significance of the Lenten journey. As Orthodox Christians observe this sacred period, they are invited to reflect on their own spiritual journeys, seeking forgiveness, healing, and renewal. Through prayer, fasting, and charity, they strive to draw closer to God, emulating the example of Jesus Christ, who gave his life for the salvation of humanity.

In April 2025, Orthodox Christians around the world will come together to observe Holy Week, united in their devotion to the Orthodox faith and their desire to experience the transformative power of the resurrection. As they walk the final stretch of their Lenten journey, they will find solace, comfort, and joy in the knowledge that Christ’s love and redemption are always available to them.