We have now entered Holy Week, which is considered as a “holiday” here in the Philippines – a country which is predominantly Catholic. For those who are not familiar with the practice, Holy Week started on Palm Sunday (April 5) and will last until Easter Sunday (April 12). That means no work and no classes for everyone on Thursday and Friday, when majority of the religious rites are done. With everyone on quarantine due to COVID-19, different organizations are set to go digital to help us maintain our annual traditions even at the comfort of our homes.

For those who don’t have plans yet, here’s a list of things that you (and even your younger siblings or kids) can do this week – from hearing online mass at specific times to Easter Egg Hunt activities.

1.Walkway: Journey to the Cross of Christ (Adults)

Since we cannot go to church physically for Stations of the Cross, we can join Walkway: Journey to the Cross of Christ – a virtual take of BGC’s annual commemoration of the 14 stations. The website is complete with images, audio guides, and texts, to help us reflect on every station.

Time: Any day/time, ongoing

Where: Without Walls PH

2. Walkway: Journey to the Cross of Christ (Kids)

For parents who want to teach their kids about the 14 Stations of the Cross, Walkway Kids Edition contains a special map that can guide the family.

Time: Any day/time, ongoing

Where: Without Walls PH

3. Hear mass online

Minus receiving communion, hearing mass online is still okay. Even Pope Francis goes Live from time to time! It’s what you do about the good words and prayers that you receive that matters in the end. In the Philippines, you can visit these pages:

• Manila Cathedral
  Time: Sunday – 8am,10am, 6pm; Monday to Friday – 7:30am, 12:10pm; Saturday – 7:30am
  Where: Manila Cathedral’s Facebook page
• Quiapo Church
  Time: Daily – 5am, 6am, 12:15pm, 3pm, 4pm
  Where: Quiapo Church’s Facebook page
• Diocese of Kalookan
  Time: Sunday – 6:30am, 7:45am, 9am, 10:15am, 3pm, 4:15pm, 5:30pm, 6:45pm, 8pm; Monday to Friday – 6am, 12nn, 6pm
  Where: Diocese of Kalookan’s Facebook page
• Diocese of Cubao
• Time: Sunday – 8am, 11am, 6pm; Monday to Saturday – 8am
• Where: Diocese of Cubao’s Facebook page
• Diocese of Pasig
  Time: Sunday – 6am, 7:30am, 9am, 4pm, 6pm; Monday to Saturday – 6am, 8am, 12nn, 6pm
  Where: Pasig Cathedral’s Facebook page
• Philippine Jesuits
  Time: Daily – 8am, 1pm
  Where: Radyo Katipunan Facebook page and Radyo Katipunan YouTube channel
• Radio Veritas
  Time: Daily – 6am, 12nn, 6pm
  Where: Radio Veritas’ Facebook page
• Sambuhay TV Mass
  Time: Saturday (anticipated mass) – 5pm; Monday to Friday – 6:15am
  Where: Sambuhay’s Facebook page
• Online masses led by Singapore Archbishop William Goh
  Time: Sunday – 10am; Monday to Saturday – 1pm
  Where: Archdiocese of Singapore’s YouTube channel

Tip: Make sure to get your free speedboost from PLDT Fibr if you have WiFi issues. Might help!

4. Easter Expedition

Bonifacio High Street will be hosting a virtual Easter activity for the kids (and kids-at-heart) via their Facebook page on Easter Sunday. Expect a virtual egg hunt and other fun activities!

Time: Sunday (April 12), time to be announced

Where: Bonifacio High Street’s Facebook page

5. Walkway: Journey to the Cross of Christ Easter Concert

For those who want to cap off their Holy Week with music that fits the occasion, join Martin Nievera and other surprise guests on Easter Sunday. Might be something you want to listen to during dinner or before you sleep.

Time: Sunday (April 12), 8:00 PM

Where: BGC’s Facebook page

Pray and reflect in the next few days, but also, remember that prayers without action will not be able to do much of a difference. Stay at home, keep yourselves safe, and follow protocols to manage the virus. Have a blessed week ahead, everyone!

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