Understanding the Significance of Holy Week: Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday Lesson Plan

Nail and Crown of thorns


Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter Sunday and is a significant time in the Christian calendar. It is a time to reflect on the life and death of Jesus Christ, and to remember the sacrifice he made for humanity. The week begins on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday.

Palm Sunday: Palm Sunday is the Sunday before Easter and marks the beginning of Holy Week. It commemorates Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where he was greeted by crowds of people who laid palm branches and their cloaks on the ground before him. The day is also known as "Passion Sunday" because it marks the start of the passion of Jesus.

Maundy Thursday: Maundy Thursday is the Thursday before Easter and it commemorates the last supper that Jesus had with his disciples. On this night, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples as an act of humility and service, and he also instituted the sacrament of Holy Communion. This day is also known as "Holy Thursday" or "Covenant Thursday."

Good Friday: Good Friday is the Friday before Easter and it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus. On this day, Christians remember and reflect on the suffering and death of Jesus on the cross. This day is also known as "Holy Friday" or "Great Friday."

Easter Sunday: Easter Sunday is the Sunday following Good Friday and it commemorates the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. On this day, Christians celebrate the triumph of life over death and the hope that Jesus' resurrection brings. This day is also known as "Resurrection Sunday" or "Easter Day."

Objective: 

Students will understand the significance of Holy Week and the events that take place during this time in the Christian calendar. They will also learn about the importance of sacrifice and reflection.

Lesson Plan:

  1. Begin by discussing the significance of Holy Week and its place in the Christian calendar.
  2. Discuss the events that take place during Holy Week, including Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday.
  3. Discuss the significance of each event and its relevance to the Christian faith.
  4. Use visual aids such as images and videos to help students understand the events of Holy Week.

Group Activity:

Divide the class into small groups and have each group create a mural or collage depicting the events of Holy Week. Encourage them to be creative and use a variety of materials.

Individual Activity:

Have students write a reflection on the meaning of Holy Week and its importance to their faith. Encourage them to share their reflections with the class.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, 

Thank you for the gift of Holy Week. 

Help us to understand the significance of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. 

We are grateful for the sacrifice that Jesus made for us. 

We ask that you guide us as we reflect on these important events in the Christian calendar.

In Jesus' name we pray.

Amen.

Conclusion:

  • Summarize the main points of the lesson and the significance of Holy Week in the Christian faith. 
  • Encourage students to continue reflecting on the events of Holy Week and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ as they continue to celebrate Easter. 
 
Note: The activities provided here are just a sample, you can adjust them based on the class size, student's level, school's curriculum and your own teaching style.
Image by Freepik

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