Holy Week and Easter at St Paul's

In Holy Week, Christians throughout the world strive to “walk the road that Jesus trod” from his arrival in Jerusalem, his last meal with his friends, his trial, his crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection. The liturgical observances of these days include rituals that bring the paschal mystery to its highest point and disclose in multiple stories and symbolic actions the central aspects of Christian identity. Join us for services Monday through Saturday evenings in Holy Week at 7 p.m. and Easter Sunday morning at 8 and 10:30 a.m.

The week begins on Palm Sunday, March 29 at 8 and 10:30 a.m. This liturgy has two distinct features: the procession with palms and the reading of Our Lord’s Passion. On this day we acclaim Christ as our King; and we pledge ourselves to follow him, living over again the fateful events followinghis entry into Jerusalem.

Wednesday, April 1, the St Paul’s Choir School will sing the ancient service of Tenebrae at 7 p.m. Tenebrae features chanting of the Lamentations and the gradual extinguishing of candles. At the conclusion of the service, one candle is hidden, typifying the apparent victory of the forces of evil. At the very end, a loud noise is made, symbolizing the earthquake at the time of Christ’s resurrection (Matthew 28:2) and the hidden candle is restored to its place. All depart in silence by its light.

On Maundy Thursday night, April 2, Lent officially ends and the Triduum begins. There is a meal at 6 p.m. and the service begins at 7 p.m. There are two traditional associations on this day: the institution of the Eucharist and our Lord’s command to wash each other’s feet—the mandatum or “maundy” (John 13:4-5). Following the Eucharist meal, the altar and sanctuary are stripped bare of all furnishings, just as Jesus was stripped of his clothing. There is a prayer vigil in the tower (corner of Church and Engle Streets) through the night.

Good Friday follows on April 3. The name “Good” refers to the old understanding of the word as “pious” or “holy. We will have three services: an 11 a.m. Stations of the Cross for Children; the Prayer Book liturgy with communion from the reserved sacrament led by the Choir School children, and Choral and Spoken meditations on the ‘Seven Last Words’ at 7 p.m. Our choirs will sing music by Byrd, Leighton, Morley, Tallis Victoria and more.

Holy Saturday, April 4, we will celebrate the Great Vigil of Easter at 7 p.m. This dramatic service includes lighting of the new fire, retelling of the ancient prophecies, baptisms, and the first Eucharist of Easter. The St Paul’s Choir School will sing, and you are invited to bring noisemakers to help us proclaim “Alleluia.”

Easter Day, April 5, will be celebrated with a sung Eucharist at 8 a.m. At 10:30 a.m., our choirs will combine with organ, brass, and timpani for a sung Festal Eucharist. Beloved Easter hymns, flowering of the cross, and an opportunity for everyone to sing Handel’s beloved “Hallelujah” chorus are all a part of the service. A festive reception will be held directly after the service. We invite everyone to join us as we celebrate the mighty acts of God’s redemption. Everyone is welcome! For more information, call 201.568.3276. Visit us on our website at www.stpaulsenglewood.org