Maintaining a weekly Mass attendance is probably more important than ever. Still, the temptation to make excuses will be strong. What if you live in a country that’s not predominantly Catholic? What if family circumstances get in the way? What if your job is compromised?

For those born Catholic, images of Christ’s crucifixion and death are not pleasant to look at or to think about. In predominantly Catholic countries, however, they are usually par for the course during Lenten season. Local networks and Christian channels often play cinematic re-enactments of the crucifixion.

How do these images make you feel? How do you explain this time in Christ’s life to your children? Many adults and young people alike find the fact that Jesus’ death and suffering was actually a victory over Satan. How can being scourged and dying in such a horrifying manner be considered a victory?

When people talk about Holy Week, the days that come to most people’s minds is Good Friday, Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday. However, Catholics should be aware that it comprises of more days than that. This day, Maundy Thursday, is an excellent example.

Sadly, not many Catholics around the world are really aware of the importance Maundy Thursday. But to put in in a historical perspective, Maundy Thursday commemorates two of the most vital parts of Church Tradition: The institution of both the priesthood and the Eucharist.