Palm/Passion Sunday This week, the center of the church’s year, is one of striking contrasts. It begins on this day, when Jesus rides into Jerusalem surrounded by shouts of glory. Withing days, he is left to die on the cross, abandoned and betrayed by some of those who swore to follow him even unto death. At Grace, this worship service will feature music by the Advent Brass, the Bells of Grace (handbells), a participatory reading from the Gospel of Luke, and Holy Communion.
Maundy Thursday On this evening, our Lenten observance comes to an end as we gather with Christians around the world to celebrate the Three Days of Jesus’ death and resurrection. On Maundy Thursday we remember Christ’s last meal with his disciples, but the central focus is his commandment that we live out the promise embodied in this meal. As Jesus washed his disciples’ feet, so we are called to give and receive love in humble service to one another. Formed into a new body in Christ through this holy meal, we are transformed by the mercy we have received and carry it into the world. Departing worship in solemn silence, we anticipate the coming days.
Good Friday Life and death stand side by side as we enter into Good Friday. In John’s passion account, Jesus reveals the power and glory of God, even as he is put on trial and sentenced to death. Standing with the disciples at the foot of the cross, we pray for the whole world in the ancient bidding prayer, as Christ’s death offers life to all. We gather in solemn devotion, but always with the promise that the tree around which we assemble is indeed a tree of life. Again we depart silently, as we anticipate the culmination of the Three Days on Easter morning.
Resurrection of our Lord / Easter Sunday Christ is risen! Jesus is alive, and God has swallowed up death forever. With Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome, we may feel astonished and confused, unsure of what to make of the empty tomb. But this is why we gather: to proclaim, witness, praise, and affirm the liberating reality of Christ’s death and resurrection. In word and feast, we celebrate God’s unending love, and depart to share this good news with all the world. Alleluia!
Dates for Holy Week 2025 at Grace Lutheran Church:
Sunday April 13 at 10:30 am – Palm/Passion Sunday with Holy Communion
Thursday April 17 at 7 pm – Maundy Thursday with Holy Communion
Friday April 18 at 12 pm – Good Friday Stations of the Cross
Friday April 18 at 7 pm – Good Friday Prayer at the Cross
Sunday April 20 at 10:30 am – Easter Sunday with Holy Communion
All services will be held in person in the church sanctuary, as well as streaming online (except for Good Friday at noon) at www.youtube.com/c/GraceLutheranChurchMacungiePA
