March 28, 2024 - Good Friday - Tenebrae, A Service of Darkness

 What Abides - For Good Friday - 

 Jan Richardson

You will know
this blessing
by how it
does not stay still,
by the way it
refuses to rest
in one place.

You will recognize it
by how it takes
first one form,
then another:

now running down
the face of the mother
who watches the breaking
of the child
she had borne,

now in the stance
of the woman
who followed him here
and will not leave him
bereft.

Now it twists in anguish
on the mouth of the friend
whom he loved;

now it bares itself
in the wound,
the cry,
the finishing and
final breath.

This blessing
is not in any one
of these alone.

It is what
binds them
together.

It is what dwells
in the space
between them,
though it be torn
and gaping.

It is what abides
in the tear
the rending makes.

from Circle of Grace

Tenebrae - A solemn remembrance for Good Friday. As candles were extinguished after each reading tonight there was a sad rediscovery of pain and loss in the sanctuary draped in black. Pastor Emillie was wearing all black, as were others who attended. 

There was a dramatized ache many felt which culminated in the sound meant to represent the closing of the tomb. It was a solemn and reflective gathering that commemorated the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The atmosphere quickly became somber and reverent, as attendees contemplate the sacrifice made by Jesus for the forgiveness of sins.

As the service began, the ambiance was subdued, with somber music setting the tone. There were banners which incorporated symbols of Christ's suffering and throughout the service, the readings from the Bible reminded us of the profound suffering and sacrifice endured by Jesus during the crucifixtion..

Matt played the music Creator associates with Good Friday service and we sang with sincerity and reverence that expressed our emotions that were connected with the profound significance of the day.

Towards the conclusion of the service, there may be a period of silence or meditation, allowing attendees to reflect quietly on the significance of Christ's sacrifice and what it means for their faith and lives. Some services may also include a ritual of veneration of the cross, where attendees have the opportunity to approach and kneel before a cross, offering their prayers and reverence.

We reflected on  our repentance and our gratitude for the sacrifice of Jesus.