The Week of Salvation: History and Traditions of Holy Week

by James Monti

The Week of History and Traditions of Holy Week explores in comprehensive detail, the scriptural, liturgical, and devotional dimensions of what is the single most important week in the Church's calendar-Holy Week. Set in the context of the four Gospel accounts and Old Testament prophecies of our Lord's passion, death, and resurrection, The Week of Salvation examines the historical origins and development of the liturgical ceremonies and devotional practices that characterize the annual observance of Holy Week throughout the world. Until now, finding information on this subject has been difficult because most resources are widely scattered, often inaccessible, or not available in English. Detailed histories are provided for a number of ceremonies and customs that seldom, if ever, have been documented before. Extensive footnotes and a complete bibliography are also included. The Week of Salvation provides an excellent resource for spiritual and educational reading. Anyone interested in the rich traditions of this pivotal time in the liturgical year will cherish this well-researched, extensive volume. About the Author James Monti graduated summa cum laude from St. Thomas Aquinas College with a degree in English. He has contributed to a number of Catholic periodicals Position Papers, Christ to the World, and Lay Witness. In 1988, he began writing full-time and developing computer software designed specifically for home instruction on Church teachings.   "The Festival of the Passion, Dearly Beloved, so earnestly looked forward to, so desired of all men, is now here... this subject, in that it is unutterable, gives matter without end for speaking; nor may what we say fall short, for of what we speak never can there be enough." - St. Leo the Great

Genres: Theology

448 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 1993

Reviews

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superlative.

I read this during Lent, and the book is an excellent aid both for meditation and education. It’s easy to read, and each section/chapter can also be read on its own if desired. All cultural practices mentioned are reinforced not only by primary/eyewitness accounts, but by piles and piles of Scripture, woven skillfully together.

(The one sad undercurrent of the book is the overwhelming number of times a 500-1500 year old tradition mysteriously vanished in the mid-twentieth century.)