Lent & Holy Week

Fr. Joel

Palm Sunday
 The first service of Holy Week is Palm Sunday, when we remember the entrance of Jesus into the city of Jerusalem. He was triumphantly hailed as he rode a donkey across palm fronds into the city – to shouts of “Hosanna in the Highest.”

Maundy Thursday
 The Eucharist will be celebrated at 6:30 pm. Micheal Hueschen, is asking everyone to participate. He is putting the service together as part of his fieldwork. After discussion with the Parish, we decided not to have a potluck this year, but to provide a service that reflects the servanthood of believers. The purpose of Maundy Thursday is to remember the Last Supper of Jesus with his disciples. This year we will be participating in a traditional foot washing, following the commandment of Christ that we should imitate His loving humility in the washing of the feet. You will not want to miss this special evening service. The service will conclude with the stripping of the altar.

Good Friday
 The origin of the term ‘Good Friday’ is unclear, but the meaning of the day is without doubt – it is the Friday on which the Church keeps the anniversary of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ –where we will experience the dramatic Good Friday readings. Join us at 6:30 pm to hear the story of what Christ went through for us.

The Great Vigil of Easter
 The Easter Vigil is the oldest of Christian holidays. It is a night of watching and rejoicing, the night of transition from death to life, from grief to joy. This year we will be celebrating the Vigil at St. Paul’s Church in St. Joseph. One of our youth will be Confirmed at this service. The Vigil starts at 8:30 pm with the Service of Light – the blessing of the new fire and the lighting of the paschal candle. At this service, we renew our baptismal vows. It is a time of recounting how God has moved through history and is active in our lives today.

Easter Day
 On this day, we will pull out all the stops, literally. The choir has prepared beautiful music that will bring glory to God. It is on this day, we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and his victory over death. We come together as a community to celebrate what God has done in our lives.

To get the full Easter experience, come to as many of the services as you are able. I promise, the Spirit of God will move you in unexpected ways.

Peace,
Fr. Joel