Holy Week is the most sacred and demanding time of the liturgical year. From Palm Sunday to Easter Vigil, each day has its own unique requirements. Here's how to prepare your church for each celebration.
Palm Sunday
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Vestments | Red (for the Passion) |
| Palms | Order and distribute before Mass |
| Processional cross | For the palm procession |
| Lectionary | Open to the Passion reading |
Holy Thursday
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Vestments | White |
| Altar | Decorated with flowers (last time until Easter) |
| Gloria | Bells rung, then silent until Easter Vigil |
| Altar of Repose | Prepare for transfer of the Blessed Sacrament |
| Ciborium | Extra hosts for Good Friday Communion |
Good Friday
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Vestments | Red |
| Altar | Stripped bare — no flowers, no candles, no linens |
| Crucifix | Veiled or uncovered for veneration |
| Large cross | For the veneration of the Cross |
| Chalice | Not used — Communion from reserved hosts |
Easter Vigil
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Vestments | White or gold |
| Paschal Candle | New candle, decorated and blessed |
| Fire | Outdoor fire for the blessing of the new fire |
| Exsultet | Large book or sheet for the Easter Proclamation |
| Baptismal water | Prepared for blessing |
| Altar | Fully decorated with flowers and candles |
What I Recommend
Create a Holy Week checklist and share it with your entire team — sacristan, ushers, choir, and volunteers. Holy Week is too complex to wing. Plan every detail, rehearse the processions, and make sure everyone knows their role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do we need extra servers for Holy Week?
A: Yes. Holy Week requires more servers than a typical Mass — especially for the Easter Vigil. Train extra servers in advance and assign specific roles for each day.
Conclusion
Holy Week is the summit of the liturgical year. Prepare carefully, celebrate reverently, and let the great mysteries of Christ's Passion, Death, and Resurrection transform your parish.
Browse our Holy Week collection — vestments, Paschal candles, and everything you need for the Triduum.