How to Explain the Triduum to Children

I wanted to share a bit about the Triduum—something I came to understand more deeply as a young mother. Growing up, I remember attending the Veneration of the Cross and praying the Stations on Good Friday, but I don’t recall ever going to Holy Thursday Mass. My husband and I started that tradition once we became parents. Is it easy with little kids? Not at all. But we make it a priority.

It’s a longer Mass and can be challenging with young children, but it’s a beautiful offering of love and faith to bring your family. I’ve often been surprised by how engaged my kids are, especially since the Mass includes unique elements not found in a typical Sunday liturgy.

If you’ve never been, I encourage you to make plans this year. Holy Thursday Mass is celebrated only in the evening.

How to explain the Triduum to children:

The Triduum is the most special time of the whole Church year. It's a three-day journey where we remember the last days of Jesus before He rose from the dead. It starts on Holy Thursday, goes through Good Friday, and ends on Easter Sunday.

Holy Thursday- The Last Supper:

On Holy Thursday, we remember how Jesus had a special dinner with His closest friends. He washed their feet to show them how to love and serve others. He also gave us a special gift — the very first Mass. That’s when He said, ‘This is my body... this is my blood.’

Good Friday- Jesus dies out of love for us:

Good Friday is a quiet and serious day. We remember how Jesus died on the cross because He loves us so much. Even though it's a sad story, it has a happy ending — because Jesus did it to save us and bring us closer to God.

Holy Saturday & Easter Vigil- Waiting & Joy:

Holy Saturday is like a big, quiet wait. The Church is silent, and we wait with Mary and Jesus’ friends. Then on Easter, we celebrate the happiest day ever — The Resurrection of Jesus! Jesus comes back to life!  He’s alive, and that means we can have new life too! We can celebrate His Resurrection at the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday night or the following day on Easter Sunday morning!