Holy Week Celebrations Highlight Diverse Religious Practices Worldwide

Holy Week, observed by Christians globally, is marked by a wide range of traditions and rituals reflecting both universal and local customs. In the United States, some view Holy Week as a reaffirmation of the nation's religious roots, with political leaders highlighting the importance of faith and religious freedom in public life. The convergence of Holy Week and Passover this year underscores shared themes of freedom and resistance to oppression, with Jesus' entry into Jerusalem interpreted as a deliberate protest against imperial power. Globally, rituals such as fasting, foot washing, and symbolic acts of humility are observed, with Eastern Orthodox Christians practicing particularly strict fasting. In the Philippines, Holy Week blends Catholicism with indigenous traditions, featuring unique public reenactments like crucifixion rituals and devotional practices that reflect a syncretic faith. These diverse observances demonstrate how Holy Week continues to serve as a time for reflection, protest, spiritual renewal, and cultural expression.