Yesterday evening we observed Maundy Thursday, a service devoted to the commemoration of The Last Supper; a time of penitence, reflection and prayer.
This service takes place in the evening, and some of our littlest members were a little sleepy....
As in a traditional service, we read a part of the old and new testements; this evening's readings has to do with the Passover, and how Christ is the new paschal sacrifice.
Then we take part in a very old tradition, stretching back to the last supper--- where all are equal and all care for eachother. This is depicted by the ceremonial washing of eachother's feet. Clergy and laity alike take turns caring for eachother at the foot washing stations near the alter.
After communion, in observance of Christ's sorrowful retreat into the Garden of Gethsemane, we strip the altar and remove the host from the sanctuary. We then place our holy elements in our own 'garden' in another part of the church, where parishoners will watch, an hour at a time, with our Lord through the night until the noon Good Friday service.
More elements from this very old tradition as it unfolds on Good Friday will be shared in the next post.....
And please know that you are WELCOME to join us! Good Friday is observed at noon and at 7 pm today. Then on Saturday we will observe our incredibly moving Easter Vigil at 8 pm. Please join us!
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