Reflecting on Holy Week Observances From Childhood: A Journey Through Tradition and Faith

Holy Week is a significant time for Filipino Catholics, filled with traditions and rituals that deepen their faith and unite families. As a Filipino who grew up in a devout Catholic household, I cherish the memories of how my family observed Holy Week. Join me on a journey down memory lane as we revisit the traditions that shaped our spiritual upbringing.

Abstinence and fasting were significant parts of our Holy Week observance, particularly from eating pork. We could only eat meat after the Resurrection Day. My mother prepared traditional Filipino foods like "benignit" and "biko." As my brother and I grew older, our understanding of abstinence evolved beyond dietary restrictions. We learned to forgo our favourite activities and instead turned to meaningful alternatives, like watching films such as "The Passion of Christ," which imparted valuable lessons about our Catholic faith.

Attending processions in our community was one of the things that we did during Holy Week. From the stirring reenactments of Christ's Passion to the solemn participation in acts of penance, this procession brought our faith to life. Images or statues representing scenes from the crucifixion were paraded through the streets. We walked alongside fellow devotees, adorned in robes, carrying crosses, and participating in acts of penance.

Mass was the cornerstone of our Holy Week observance, as my younger brother was an acolyte in the church. The Nibeva family was always there to support, whether it was the vibrant Palm Sunday celebration or the pre-dawn Easter Mass; each service held a special place in our hearts.

The Palm Sunday Mass commemorates Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, marking the beginning of Holy Week in the Christian calendar. Around that time, palm frond sellers were outside the church. The sight of palm fronds blessed by the priest and placed in our home as a symbol of protection remains etched in my memory.

The Easter Sunday Mass celebrates Jesus Christ's resurrection, which usually occurs at dawn or shortly before sunrise, symbolizing a new day and resurrection. During the Mass, reenactment plays take place, culminating with children portraying angels singing and rejoicing in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. I have vivid memories of participating as an angel myself in these reenactments. My mother volunteered me for the role in one of the performances.

The Stations of the Cross is a traditional Catholic devotion commemorating Jesus Christ's passion and death. The 14 stations or images represent events from Christ's journey to his crucifixion and burial.

Embarking on the Stations of the Cross pilgrimage was an annual tradition that filled us with anticipation. Trekking through the mountains, we paused at each station to pray and reflect on Christ's journey to Calvary. Our pilgrimage culminated in the sweet taste of freshly cooked "bibingka," a beloved Filipino delicacy that rewarded our spiritual journey.

Our family's traditions were part of a larger tapestry of Filipino Catholic customs. Whether it was the Visita Iglesia pilgrimages, Lenten retreats, or acts of penance, our community came together in collective devotion and reflection. Witnessing the faith and commitment of our fellow Catholics reinforced the bonds of solidarity and fellowship that defined Holy Week for us.

Reflecting on our family's Holy Week traditions fills me with nostalgia and gratitude for the values they instilled in us. Though time may have passed, the memories of those sacred rituals continue to shape my faith and identity. As I look back on those cherished moments, I am reminded of the profound impact Holy Week had on our family—a time of spiritual growth, communal unity, and unwavering devotion to our Catholic heritage.

Feel free to share what you remember you did with your family during Holy Week.