Bits of Blue

March 31, 2002
The Triduum

I returned to the Catholic Church and the Easter Triduum a few years ago after a period of over 20 years. Everything about the Triduum seemed to help me put the season and my faith together. It was an awesome experience. Those images were unforgettable and I was filled with consolation. I remembered wondering how that could possibly be "topped."

Even as the thought went through my mind, I knew it couldn't be topped. The world pursues the biggest and best event or spectacle. That is not what God has planned for us, nor does it apply to the Triduum. God calls us to holiness and growth in Christ. He gently leads us into situations where we can grow spiritually.

Now I find myself at Blue Cloud Abbey where the Triduum is easily recognizable and the monastery has distinct traditions.

On Holy Thursday the Mass of the Lord's Supper starts at 5:00 PM. Immediately following the Homily, the Abbot washes the feet of monks and guests. After the Mass, the Blessed Sacrament is taken in procession to the lower level Chapel for adoration until midnight. The monks take turns in adoration until that hour.

At 6:30 PM a special Seder meal is served. The Seder meal took place on the eve of the Passover as the Jews went to synagogue and returned home for the Passover meal. This special meal is called the Seder. It progresses through the various courses, and each course is served by the Abbot, Prior, and senior monks.

On Good Friday the Solemn Liturgy of our Lord's Passion and Death takes place in the afternoon at 3:00 PM. Friday also includes the veneration of the Cross.

Perhaps the most unique of the Holy days of the Triduum at Blue Cloud is the Easter Vigil. This is because it takes place in two parts. It begins on Saturday night at 8:00 PM and includes the Service of Light and Liturgy of the Word. The Vigil continues throughout the night with night watches. The final part of the Easter Vigil starts at 5:00 AM on Easter Sunday. This concluding portion includes the Liturgy of the Baptism and Eucharist.

The Easter Triduum is a very special time here at Blue Cloud Abbey. We pray that it is a special time of holiness and spiritual growth for you wherever God has led you!

The Lord is my light and salvation. (Psalm 27:1)