Holy Week Celebrations Set to Begin April 13 in Chicago

CHICAGO, IL — The 2025 Holy Week is approaching, set to commence on April 13 and concluding on April 20, a period significant in the Christian liturgical calendar. This week of observances commemorates the final moments of Jesus Christ’s life, engaging Catholics worldwide in reflection, prayer, and solemnity.

The week kicks off with Palm Sunday on April 13, marking Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The ensuing days offer a series of rituals that invite the faithful to dive deeper into the Christian faith, culminating in Easter Sunday on April 20, which celebrates the resurrection of Christ.

During Holy Week, various traditions unfold. Palm Sunday begins the week as congregants gather to receive blessed palms, a tradition stemming from the biblical account of Jesus being hailed as the Messiah. Many attend services carrying olive branches or palm fronds, symbols of faith and reverence.

As the week progresses, each day serves as a reminder of key events in the lead-up to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. For instance, Holy Monday reflects on Jesus’ divine authority, while Holy Tuesday—the Day of Controversy—remembers the questioning He faced from religious and political authorities.

Holy Wednesday evokes the moment of betrayal by Judas Iscariot, marking it as a somber day of reflection on loyalty and faithfulness. Then comes Holy Thursday, which celebrates the Last Supper where Jesus instituted the sacrament of the Eucharist and washed the feet of His disciples as a testament to humility.

Many churches will host special services leading up to Good Friday, a day dedicated to remembering Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross. Catholics around the world often participate in the Stations of the Cross, retracing the steps taken by Christ toward Calvary. This day prompts deep contemplation of Jesus’ sacrifice and humanity’s need for redemption.

Continuing the narrative, Holy Saturday serves as a moment of anticipation. It is a day of waiting that transitions to the Easter Vigil, held after sundown, which includes the lighting of the Paschal candle and the renewal of baptismal vows.

The week culminates in Easter Sunday, the pinnacle of the Christian calendar celebrated on April 20, marking Jesus’ resurrection. It is not only a day of joy but a reminder of the promise of eternal life. Many Christians participate in celebrations filled with hymns of joy as they proclaim the empty tomb found on the first Easter morning.

In Chicago, the Archdiocese invites residents to partake in the approaching solemnities, particularly emphasizing the Palm Sunday Mass at the Cathedral of the Holy Name, which will take place outside the cathedral preceded by a procession. Cardinal Cupich will lead the service, scheduled for 12:30 p.m. However, those unable to attend can view the mass live on YouTube.

The community is also encouraged to join in for the Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 5:30 p.m. and the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday at 8 p.m., highlighting various traditions within the Catholic faith.