Holy Week Services at Bethany 

During Holy Week, we will observe Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Morning services! The services of Holy Week recall the events of the week that led up to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This week is considered the chief time in the life of the church. Join us for our worship during Holy Week and Easter, as we contemplate the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ for us!

·       Sunday, March 29, at 8:30 am and 11:00 am

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week.  As Jesus entered Jerusalem, we rejoice with the crowds, waving palms and shouting “Hosanna!”—“Save us!”    

·       Thursday, April 2, at 7:00 pm

Maundy Thursday takes its name from the Latin word for “commandment,” as we remember when Jesus told his disciples, “A new commandment I give to you: Love one another.”  In this service, we remember the institution of the Lord’s Supper, and the service concludes with the stripping of the altar. 

·       Friday, April 3:  Chief Divine Service at 4:00 pm; Tenebrae Service at 7:00 pm.

Good Friday commemorates the day when our Lord gave his life to save us from our sins.  In these somber services, we contemplate the cost that Jesus paid for our redemption.  The Chief Service includes the Lord’s Supper and special prayers. The Tenebrae (which means “darkness”) service includes the gradual extinguishing of candles as the Passion is read, as well as the strepitus (the loud sound symbolizing the closing of the tomb).

·       Saturday, April 4, at 7:00 pm

The Easter Vigil reflects upon the fulfillment of many of the Old Testament promises of salvation. This service begins outside at the bonfire, processes into the sanctuary in darkness by candlelight, then transitions to Easter joy mid-way through the service. The new paschal candle is dedicated during this service, as well.

·       Sunday, April 5, at 8:30 am and 11:00 am

Easter Sunday is the day of the resurrection – a joyous celebration of our Lord’s victory over sin, death, and the devil. This is the highest point of our Christian year and the source of all our peace, joy, and hope. Between the services, there will be plenty of pastries and fellowship, as well as an Easter Egg Hunt at 10:15 am.

As always, your family is welcome to join us for all of these services! The Lord bless your celebration of Holy Week and Easter!

In Christ,

Pastor Seth Clemmer