Holy Week is the culmination of the Lenten journey and leads us into the heart of the Christian mystery: the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. For us, Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, this time is lived with deep reverence, prayer, and commitment, as it invites us to renew our faith and, especially, the hope that flows from the Cross.
Hope that Springs from Love
As we contemplate Jesus' steps toward Calvary, our hearts are invited to immerse themselves in the infinite love of God, who gives Himself completely for us. Pope Francis reminds us that "hope is born of love and is founded on the love that flows from the Heart of Jesus" (Spes non confundit, 3). It is from this love that a hope is born that does not disappoint, because it is sustained by God's faithfulness.
Embracing the Mystery with the Heart
In living Holy Week, we are called not only to recall the events, but to spiritually enter into each celebration: the humility of Palm Sunday, the service of the Washing of the Feet, the silence of the Passion, the waiting of Holy Saturday, and the joy of the Resurrection. Each moment brings with it an opportunity to renew our trust in God, who makes all things new.
A Time of Communion with the World's Suffering
United with the suffering Heart of Jesus, we also embrace the suffering of humanity. The cross of Christ urges us to look at today's crucified: the poor, the sick, the lonely, those who have lost their faith. It is there that we are called to be bearers of hope, with concrete gestures of solidarity and compassion.
The Joy of Easter Sunday
The light of Easter Sunday dispels the darkness and rekindles in us the certainty that life triumphs over death, that love is stronger than sin. This Easter hope must accompany us every day, nourishing our mission in the world.
Pilgrims of Hope
As Pope Francis invites us in this Jubilee Year, we desire to live this Holy Week as true pilgrims of hope. May the Holy Spirit grant us the grace to live this sacred time intensely and to radiate, wherever we go, the hope that flows from the Heart of Jesus.
We wish everyone a blessed and fruitful Holy Week. May this time of prayer, silence, and offering also sanctify us and draw us ever closer to the redeeming love of Christ.
