Photographer Frederic Pecson captured Holy Week at Holy Rosary Cathedral from the Chrism Mass on Wednesday, April 1, through Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil.

The Holy Week journey begins at the Chrism Mass with the blessing of the sacred oils and the renewal of priestly promises. On Holy Thursday, the Church commemorates the Lord’s Supper, including the washing of the feet as a sign of humble service. Good Friday marks the Passion of Christ in a solemn liturgy centred on the cross.

The journey culminates at the Easter Vigil, when new Catholics are welcomed into the Church and the light of the Resurrection breaks through the darkness. 


Chrism Mass

The Chrism Mass, where the sacred oils are blessed for use in the coming year.


Priests renewed their promises at the Chrism Mass.

Holy Thursday

Preparing for the washing of the feet.
Archbishop Smith washes feet as a sign of humble service.
Archbishop Smith prepares to remove the Blessed Sacrament from the tabernacle on Holy Thursday.

Good Friday

Veneration of the cross on Good Friday
Quiet prayer on Good Friday

Easter Vigil


The light of Christ spreads by candlelight through Holy Rosary Cathedral.



Ringing bells at the Easter Vigil to proclaim the Resurrection


Archbishop Smith sprinkles the faithful with holy water.



Archbishop Smith welcomes catechumens and candidates into full communion with the Church.



Choir singing at the cathedral



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