Fifth Sunday of Lent

The Fifth Sunday of Lent marks the beginning of Passiontide—the final two weeks before Easter, focused intensely on the suffering and death of Christ. In many churches, crosses and statues are veiled in purple cloth, hidden until the Easter Vigil.

Passiontide Begins

With this Sunday, the Church's focus shifts decisively toward the cross. The readings speak of death and resurrection, of grain falling into the earth to bear fruit, of glory through suffering.

The Raising of Lazarus (Year A)

In Year A, the Gospel presents Jesus' greatest sign before his own resurrection—the raising of Lazarus:

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will still live, even if he dies. Whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?'" — John 11:25-26

Martha's confession—"Yes, Lord; I believe"—is the faith to which we are all called.

The Grain of Wheat (Year B)

Year B gives us Jesus' words about his coming death:

"Most certainly I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains by itself alone. But if it dies, it bears much fruit." — John 12:24

Jesus' death will not be defeat but the means of abundant life for all who believe.

The Veiling of Images

The traditional practice of veiling crosses and images during Passiontide removes visual distractions and heightens anticipation for the unveiling at Easter. We enter a kind of visual fast that makes the Easter celebration more powerful.

Third Scrutiny

For catechumens, this Sunday features the Third Scrutiny, the final ritual preparation before their baptism at the Easter Vigil. The story of Lazarus speaks powerfully to those about to pass through the waters of death and resurrection.

Approaching Holy Week

Palm Sunday is one week away. The Passion narrative looms. Jesus sets his face toward Jerusalem. We walk with him toward the cross, knowing that beyond it lies an empty tomb.

"Do You Believe This?"

Jesus' question to Martha is the question of Lent: Do you believe that he is the resurrection and the life? If so, what does that mean for how you live?