Holy Week Preparations Underway as Easter Approaches

MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa — As Easter approaches on April 20, 2025, Christians around the globe prepare to commemorate the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ through a series of traditions observed during Holy Week. This week, spanning from April 13 to April 20, marks significant events in the Christian calendar, emphasizing themes of renewal and penance.

Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus on the third day after his crucifixion, concluding the 40-day period of Lent, a time of reflection, fasting, and penance for many Christians. According to the National Retail Federation, those participating in Easter festivities are expected to spend an average of $189.26 on clothing, candy, and decorations.

“It’s a significant portion of the population,” said Father Kyle Tietz, associate pastor at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Marshalltown, highlighting how essential the observance of Lent is for local Catholic residents. Lent began on March 5, 2025, Ash Wednesday, and concludes on April 17, the day before Good Friday.

This year, Palm Sunday falls on April 13, commemorating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Celebrations often include palm blesses, symbolizing victory and peace, which congregants might use in various rites throughout the year. “We’re getting close to Holy Week, so we will have Palm Sunday, representing Jesus entering Jerusalem shortly before his passion and death,” Tietz noted.

During Holy Week, numerous significant events occur, starting with Maundy Thursday on April 17, which marks the Last Supper. Many congregations hold special communion services on this night. Good Friday, observed on April 18, is traditionally a day for mourning and reflection, marking the crucifixion of Jesus. “It’s reflecting on the death of Jesus, emphasizing penance, and attending church services,” Father Tietz explained.

Customs surrounding Easter, such as the decoration of eggs, symbolize new life and rebirth, while the infamous Easter Bunny has unclear origins rooted in early German writings. Other traditions, like the consumption of jelly beans, have developed more recently, dating back to the 1930s.

Father Tietz reflected on contemporary practices during Lent, urging congregants to engage in both sacrifice and additional prayer. “We encourage moving away from just giving something up to filling that space with meaningful practices,” he said. Common sacrifices range from abstaining from coffee or alcohol to partaking in additional acts of charity.

Observing the days of abstinence from meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday is a strong tradition among local practitioners. “Fish dinners are prevalent, creating a space for community gatherings,” Tietz mentioned, describing weekly fish dinners hosted at St. Francis. The church’s activities promote a tangible connection to the Lenten season where families can bond over shared experiences.

“It’s all about beginning again, much like Jesus’ journey,” Tietz added. “Everyone is good about starting off well. The spiritual life is about beginning and beginning again.” As Lent progresses, the community prepares to celebrate Easter together, participating in various religious ceremonies and family traditions that uphold their faith.

As Holy Week draws nearer, churches across the region gear up for the profound observances that culminate in the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday, marking a central tenet of the Christian faith.