Tenebrae is the first of two connected services,
ending on Easter, that together commemorate the
passion and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The word tenebrae is Latin for shadows. The purpose of the tenebrae service is to recreate the feeling of the passion of Jesus Christ.
During this service, the Sanctuary will progressively darken, recalling the apparent triumph of darkness on Good Friday. Seven candles signify the seven last words of Christ and are extinguished one by one to symbolize the sacrificial death of Jesus for our sins.
This is the most solemn service of the Christian year, and will allow us to reflect on what Christ has done for us.

During the Maundy Thursday Tenebrae Service we will remember that Jesus shared the bread and cup with his disciples that night of his betrayal. We will worship through Communion. All Christian believers, regardless of church membership, are invited to partake of the
bread and cup. Again, we are reminded of the Lord’s death for us.

In contrast, the Easter Sunday Worship Service is the happy occassion! Celebration of Jesus Christ’s resurrection and victory over sin and death will be accomplished through alleluias, great hymns and music, preaching of the good news, and the uncovering of the darkened cross. This is a time of joyful praise and witness to our living faith. Come experience the joy!