Liturgical Lines on Holy Week

The Chrism Mass

The Bishop presides at this concelebrated Mass on Holy Thursday morning, but it may be transferred to another day. In our Diocese, it is celebrated on Monday at 7:30 pm at the Co-Cathedral, Freehold. At this Mass, the Oils for the sacraments are consecrated and the priests renew their priestly promises.

Holy Thursday

• The only Mass permitted is the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper.
• Funeral Masses are not permitted.
• Before Mass, the tabernacle should be empty; sufficient hosts should be consecrated for today and tomorrow.
• Before Mass, Holy Water is removed from the fonts.
• Those having their feet washed should be a cross-section of the community.
• First Communions are not permitted at this Mass.
• The altar is stripped at the conclusion of the Mass.
• Crosses should be veiled and vigil lights are removed.

Good Friday

• It is a day of fasting and abstinence.
• Mass is not celebrated. A Celebration of the Lord’s Passion is held at which the Eucharist may be received.
• The Eucharist is brought only as Viaticum (in danger of death).
• Funeral Masses are not permitted.

Holy Saturday

• The only Mass today is that of the Solemn Vigil, which takes place at night and not at the same time as the usual anticipated Sunday Masses.
• The Sacraments of Initiation are celebrated for the Elect.
• Nine Scripture readings are assigned to the Vigil, but these may be reduced to five.
• Those who receive communion at the Vigil may also receive at another Mass on Easter Day.