Friday of the fifth week of Lent, 2023

Here we are celebrating the last Friday before Holy Week. The readings for today could be the readings for Good Friday. They speak of the upcoming death of the Lord, and Jeremiah talks about “terror on every side” and “the whisperings of many.” Jeremiah is facing persecution himself, but the words can clearly be applied to the sufferings that Jesus was about to face.

The Pascal Mystery is about to unfold before us. The glorious entry into Jerusalem will be celebrated this coming Sunday. The gift of the Eucharist and Holy Orders will be remembered on Holy Thursday with the call for each of us to do what Jesus did, which is to serve the needs of others. After washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus says, “I’m giving you a model to follow so that as I have done for you, you should also do.” Of course, the following Sunday we will celebrate the glory of the Resurrection. The Pascal Mystery is that Jesus suffered and died for us so that all of us can share in the wonder and gift of His resurrection.

Let us make Holy Week special as we celebrate the Lord’s sacrificial love for us. May this week be, for all of us, a mini retreat as we rejoice in the gift from God, who sent His Son so that all who believe in Him may have eternal life.

Fr. John Enzler is President and CEO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington.