Holy Week begins this Sunday, March 24, with Palm Sunday Worship and extends to Easter Sunday, March 31.
During this pivotal week, we journey alongside Jesus as he enters Jerusalem, shares a final meal with his disciples, seeks comfort in prayer, faces betrayal, and endures trial and suffering, culminating in the heart-wrenching crucifixion. In embracing the trials and tribulations of Holy Week, we open ourselves anew to the depths of Christ’s love, the joy of Easter, and the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.
As we begin Holy Week, on Palm Sunday, children are invited to join the palm processional as we mark Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where crowds welcome him with praise. The Elementary Children’s Choir will sing during worship!
On Wednesday, March 27, we will celebrate Maundy Thursday, where Jesus shared his last supper with his disciples, washing their feet in humility and service and instituting communion. Yes, you read correctly: we will celebrate Maundy Thursday on Wednesday! We decided to make this change to reenact Maundy Thursday, as it would have occurred with Jesus around the table after a shared meal. Children, youth and adults are invited to participate in this unique experiential worship service in the Fellowship Hall at 6:00pm. (Wednesday night supper will be served as usual.)
Good Friday, March 29, is always a solemn remembrance, marking Jesus’ crucifixion and death; we will worship in Carpenter Chapel at 6:00pm. This service will be based around Jesus’ “I am” statements in the gospel of John, which have been our focus throughout Lent. Our observance of Good Friday enriches the sweet joy of Easter and the glorious celebration of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead.
Easter morning, there are multiple opportunities to worship God and celebrate the triumph of life over death and love over fear.
- Easter Sunday at 10:30am
- Easter Sunrise at 7am (see page 2 for more information)
- Easter Garden at 8:30am (see page 2 for more information)
I hope you will join us on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday (on Wednesday!), Good Friday, and Easter Sunday as we gather in worship.
—Carol