The Paschal Mystery

Jesus’ Saving Mission Finds Its Fulfillment in His Suffering, Death, and

Resurrection

The Paschal Mystery

Refers to something that happened to Jesus, but we participate as well.

Jesus’ suffering, death, and Resurrection are the most important events of his life.

The Last Supper

At the Last Supper, Jesus washes the disciples feet to demonstrate the importance of love as service to one another.

The Last Supper

Jesus uses this Passover meal to institute the Eucharist, the Sacrament of his continuing presence in the transformed gifts of bread and wine.

The Last Supper

Because the Last Supper is a Passover meal, Jesus identifies himself as the Paschal Lamb, since he will sacrifice himself for forgiveness of sins.

The Cross

Originally, the cross was understood as an instrument of torture and execution by the Romans.

Now, it is universally seen as a symbol of Christianity.

The Cross

The early Christians began to understand how Jesus’ freely given obedience to the Father’s will frees us from our sins.

The Cross

When Jesus dies on the cross, the gospels say that the temple veil was torn in two.

This symbolizes that people will now all have access to the presence of God.

The Cross

The sins of Adam and Eve are redeemed by the Cross.

Passion & Resurrection Narratives

The story of the Passion and Resurrection appears in all four Gospels.

While each narrative tells a slightly different story, Mary Magdalene is mentioned in all four as going to the tomb in the morning.

The Empty Tomb

The women go to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body.

When they arrive, they are informed by an angel that Jesus is risen.

The Risen Lord

The Risen Lord who appears to the disciples is a real, physical presence and is living in a new, glorified body.

The Risen Lord

John’s Gospel has the story of doubting Thomas, who wanted proof of Jesus’ Resurrection by touching his wounds.

The Risen Lord

In another Resurrection story, Jesus appears to the disciples on the beach and eats breakfast with them.

The Resurrection

The historical validity of the Resurrection is supported by the following: All four gospels make

reference to it. Many followers chose

to die because of their faith.

The Resurrection caused profound change in believers.

The Eucharist

When we celebrate the Eucharist, we commemorate and make present Christ’s sacrifice.