My reflection on Holy Week (Mahal na Araw) takes me back to my childhood in the Philippines, where my family has always been devout and active members of the Catholic faith. Every year, our entire family would participate in the week-long observances, attending Mass daily to meditate on the immense sacrifices of Jesus Christ.
On Palm Sunday, we bring palm leaves, or palaspas, to the church. The celebration begins with the priest and parishioners holding palms, re-enacting Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. A young girl, dressed in white like an angel, often participates in the procession, scattering flower petals to symbolise purity and joy.
Before or during Mass, the priest blesses the palms with holy water. At home, we place the blessed palms on our family altar as a sign of faith and protection, reminding us of God’s presence in our lives.
Throughout the week, our family, along with other parishioners, engages in prayer and attends church services. As is customary in Filipino tradition, we sing or chant the Gospel narratives, recounting Jesus’ life and His ultimate sacrifice for humanity.
Holy Thursday holds some of my most vivid and cherished memories, as the celebration often takes place in our home. My father and 12 male relatives and friends would re-enact the Last Supper, portraying Jesus and His apostles. Wearing traditional Jewish attire, they would dramatise the Institution of the Eucharist, where Jesus offers bread and wine, declaring them His body and blood.
I particularly remember the humble washing of the apostles’ feet, a profound lesson in service and humility. The reenactment grows intense as Judas Iscariot’s betrayal unfolds—watching this moment makes me deeply reflect on Jesus’ strength and suffering, leaving me both awed and sorrowful.
On the early morning of Good Friday, the Passion continues with the re-enactment of Jesus’ arrest, with church members portraying Roman soldiers. This solemn portrayal reminds me of Christ’s unwavering humility and purity, even in the face of injustice.
Our family observes a fasting until lunch, and in the afternoon, my mother prepares food for those participating in the procession. We carry statues of Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary through the streets, commemorating His journey to Calvary.
Easter Sunday, known as Salubong, is a joyous culmination of Holy Week. This pre-dawn ritual reenacts the meeting of the Risen Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Two processions converge—one carrying the image of the Risen Lord, and the other the grieving Mother. When they meet, Mary’s black veil is lifted, symbolising the end of sorrow and the triumph of hope and new life.
For me, Holy Week is a sacred time of prayer, reflection, and reverence. Yet it concludes with the profound joy of Easter Sunday, celebrating the Resurrection and the promise of hope, renewal, and salvation. Experiencing these traditions has deeply strengthened my faith, leaving a lasting imprint of devotion and gratitude in my heart.
Melinda Hilapo-Slann
Queensland Archivist, Congregational Administration Services