The Passion of Jesus Christ is an integral part of God’s mysterious plan of salvation, through which Jesus came to serve and offer His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). This event involved the accountability of the Sanhedrin and Pilate for His death, rather than the Jewish people as a whole (Mark 10:33, 14:64, 15:14-15). During these events, Jesus’ response to the High Priest regarding His identity was a truth that would ultimately be revealed through His resurrection (Mark 14:61-64).

Theologically, the Passion, together with the life and resurrection of Jesus, realizes the fulfillment of the Jewish Scriptures (CCC 85). This sacrifice is central to the reconciliation of heaven and earth, as it is through the Cross, Resurrection, and Ascension that humanity is enabled to ascend to heaven with Him (CCC 2795).

The Passion is centrally commemorated in the Church’s liturgical life through the Eucharist. This sacrament is specifically identified as the memorial of the Lord’s Passion and Resurrection, making present the one sacrifice of Christ the Savior (CCC 1330).