Holy Wednesday | Spy Wednesday

Holy Wednesday, also known as Spy Wednesday, is the Wednesday in Holy Week, the most solemn week in the Christian calendar, leading up to Easter Sunday. It is called Spy Wednesday from the idea that Judas was acting like a “spy” among the disciples.

History of Spy Wednesday

Spy Wednesday is the traditional name for Holy Wednesday and commemorates Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus Christ. The term “spy” refers to Judas secretly planning and conspiring with the religious leaders to hand Jesus over to them — essentially, he was acting as a spy within the disciples.

“Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them. They were delighted to hear this and promised to give him money. So he watched for an opportunity to hand him over.”
— Mark 14:10-11

Scripture tells us, “Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, ‘What will you give me if I betray him to you?’ They paid him thirty pieces of silver.

Besides “Holy Wednesday,” the day has several names. One is “Silent Wednesday” because the Gospels do not record anything about Jesus’ activities. Other names include “Black Wednesday” or “Wednesday of Shadows,” connecting the liturgical celebration of Tenebrae that may be celebrated on this day and Judas’ betrayal of Jesus.

Spiritual Meaning

It’s a day of reflection on personal sin and betrayal. A time to consider the cost of discipleship and the dangers of hypocrisy. A reminder that betrayal often comes from within — Judas was one of the Twelve. It is a day to prepare for the solemn events of the Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday).

Judas walked with Jesus, witnessed miracles, shared meals, and yet harbored betrayal in his heart. His actions represent the silent, internal battles we all face — between faith and fear, love and selfishness, loyalty and compromise. One of the most moving truths of Spy Wednesday is that Jesus knew Judas would betray Him — and still washed his feet, shared the table, and called him “friend.

Tradition of Spy Wednesday

This Holy Wednesday (and every time we approach the Lord in prayer and worship), let’s swallow our pride and admit that we need God’s help. And we don’t just need it for the big things like salvation from Sin and Death. We need God’s help just as much for the little things like paying joyful attention during the second half of Holy Week.

So, today, on Spy Wednesday, take a moment and look behind you. See how God has already been faithful to you, even when, like Judas, you participate in betrayals of all kinds. And when you are done with that, look to the future, and let yourself imagine what the God who is pure love, pure creativity, pure transformation, might be raising up in you.

Different cultures bring unique expressions to Holy Wednesday:

Philippines (Miyerkules Santo): Passion plays and processions begin or intensify. Churchgoers reflect on Judas and prepare for Holy Thursday events

Spain & Latin America: Holy Wednesday is often marked by penitential processions, especially in cities like Seville or Quito. Statues of Jesus and Mary are carried through the streets

Ethiopian Orthodox Church: Observes the story of Judas’ betrayal with vigils, prayers, and special chanting of Psalms.