A Letter from Our Rector as we approach Holy Week

Dear friends in Christ,

You’ve seen the schedule for Holy Week. This letter explains why it is important to observe it, and not just jump from Palm Sunday to Easter. Our lives don’t go from high point to high point, but include challenges, heartbreak, and suffering. Holy Week is essential for understanding the complexity of our Christian journey and learning to accept its gifts. Each service is unique and contributes to the arc of the story that includes the conclusion of Jesus’ ministry, his crucifixion, and finally on Easter his resurrection. I hope you will make the effort to journey with us.

Palm Sunday – We will begin outdoors, weather permitting, to recall Jesus’ procession into Jerusalem. We imagine we are among those welcoming him with our hopes and expectations. As we have done the last few years, we will save the Passion Gospel for Good Friday. Our focus for Palm Sunday is exploring the ways Jesus’ power and the power of the religious and political authorities are at odds. This helps us better understand and face our own struggles as we live in the world as it is, longing and working for God’s promised reign.

Maundy Thursday – “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum, commandment. Tonight we recall Jesus’ last evening with his disciples, his final words and actions among them, and particularly his commandment to love one another. You will be invited to have your feet washed as a reminder that Jesus came to serve, not to rule. We will celebrate Eucharist in commemoration of the Last Supper. The service ends in contemplation as we strip the altar in preparation for the stark sorrow of Good Friday.

Good Friday – The centerpiece of the Good Friday liturgy is the choral reading of the Mark’s Passion Gospel – the story of how Jesus was betrayed, tried, crucified, and buried. We surround this with prayer and song, lamenting the brokenness of the world even as we nurture an ember of hope. We do not celebrate Eucharist on this day.

Easter – Our annual celebration of God’s life-giving love is a feast for the senses. Bring a flower to adorn the outdoor cross, our witness to the community that God brings new life even out of death. We will enjoy wonderful music, renew our baptismal vows, and shout the “A” word for the first time since Lent began. Plan to stay after worship for a festive coffee hour and fellowship time.

The Rev. Kristine Johnson
Rector, St. Mary’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church