What Does Holy Week Mean for Christians?

SHARE
Holy Week is the most sacred time in the Christian calendar, commemorating the final days of Jesus Christ’s earthly life, his suffering, death, and resurrection. For Christians, it is a time of deep spiritual reflection, gratitude, and renewal of faith. It serves as a reminder of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice and the hope his resurrection brings.
Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, celebrating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. As foretold in the Old Testament (Zechariah 9:9), Jesus rode into the city on a donkey while crowds laid palm branches before him, shouting “Hosanna!” in recognition of his kingship. This day sets the stage for the events leading to his passion.
On Holy Monday and Tuesday, Jesus continued teaching in the temple, confronting religious leaders and reinforcing his mission. He also cleansed the temple, condemning those who had turned it into a marketplace, emphasizing the need for sincere worship.
Spy Wednesday marks the day Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. This betrayal led to Jesus’ arrest, setting in motion the events of his crucifixion.
Maundy Thursday is significant as the day of the Last Supper, where Jesus shared bread and wine with his disciples, instituting the Eucharist. He washed their feet, demonstrating humility and service, and gave them a new commandment: “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 13:34). Later, he prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, agonizing over his impending suffering but submitting to God’s will.
Good Friday is the solemn remembrance of Jesus’ crucifixion. Arrested, tried unjustly, and condemned, he was tortured and forced to carry his cross to Golgotha, where he was crucified. Despite his suffering, he forgave his persecutors and, with his last breath, declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30). The veil in the temple tore in two, symbolizing that his sacrifice opened the way for humanity’s reconciliation with God.
Holy Saturday is a day of waiting. Jesus lay in the tomb, and his followers mourned in sorrow, not yet understanding the fulfillment of his promise.
Holy Week culminates on Easter Sunday, the most joyous day in Christianity. Jesus rose from the dead, conquering sin and death, and appeared to his disciples, proving that he was truly the Son of God. His resurrection is the foundation of Christian faith, as stated in the Bible verse 1 Corinthians 15:17: “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile.”
For Christians, Holy Week is a time of repentance, gratitude, and renewal. It reminds them of Christ’s immense love, the power of sacrifice, and the promise of eternal life. Through prayers, fasting, and reflection, believers seek to grow closer to God and embrace the hope that Easter brings—victory over sin and the promise of salvation.
*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo from christianpublishinghouse.com
RELATED ARTICLES

Rising Designers Take the Spotlight at the 2025 Fashion Trust U.S. Awards
