The disciples on the road to Emmaus had certain expectations about the Messiah, but were disillusioned when Jesus was put to death. Their conversion was one of being called to a more profound faith in the redemptive suffering of Christ.

“Let us allow the peace of Christ to enter our lives, our homes, our countries!” Pope Francis pleaded.

On this night, brothers and sisters, let us allow the women of the Gospel to lead us by the hand, so that, with them, we may glimpse the first rays of the dawn of God’s life rising in the darkness of our world.

Holy Saturday can feel like the sleepless night-before-Christmas of the Triduum. But it can be a meaningful part of Easter—and not just a time to dye eggs or make tomorrow’s dessert.

The new meditation read April 15 called for a moment of silence: “In the face of death, silence is more eloquent than words. Let us pause in prayerful silence and each person pray in their hearts for peace in the world.”

A Reflection for Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion, by Doug Girardot