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Easter
April 5
Easter Sunday for the Roman Catholic Church falls on April 5, 2026. It is the most significant celebration in the liturgical calendar, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the conclusion of the 40-day season of Lent.
Holy Week 2026 Schedule
Holy Week represents the final stage of Lent and leads directly into the Easter celebrations.
- Palm Sunday (March 29): Commemorates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Faithful receive blessed palm branches at Mass.
- Holy Thursday (April 2): Marks the Mass of the Lord’s Supper and the institution of the Eucharist. It often includes the ritual washing of the feet.
- Good Friday (April 3): A day of fasting and abstinence commemorating the Passion and crucifixion of Jesus. There is no Mass; instead, a Liturgy of the Passion is held.
- Holy Saturday (April 4): A day of solemn waiting. The Easter Vigil, the most important liturgy of the year, begins after sunset.
- Easter Sunday (April 5): The joyous celebration of the Resurrection.
Key Liturgical Information
- Lectionary Cycle: In 2026, the Church follows Year A for Sunday readings.
- Holy Day of Obligation: Easter Sunday is a Holy Day of Obligation, requiring participation in Mass.
- Easter Season: The celebration continues for 50 days, ending on Pentecost Sunday, May 24, 2026.
- Vatican Events: Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to preside over major liturgies at St. Peter’s Basilica, including the Easter Vigil at 9:00 PM on April 4 and Easter Sunday Mass at 10:15 AM on April 5, followed by the Urbi et Orbi blessing.