Holy week begins on Palm Sunday and includes the entire week leading up to Easter. I have found that experiencing and participating in every aspect of Holy week strengthens my faith. From Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, to the very personal and intimate time with the disciples on Maundy Thursday, to the darkness and agony of Good Friday, we see the process of God’s offer of salvation to the world.
I challenge you to plan to attend all the services this week. Palm Sunday’s Triumphant Quartet concert will be a wonderful way to imagine the celebration of the people who welcomed Jesus in Jerusalem with the word “Hosanna”, meaning “save us.” Remember we have one combined service at 10 am, and we will turn in the Create a Legacy commitment cards.
Our Maundy Thursday service includes a message from Youth Director Matt Gleason and from me, as well as a special time of hand-washing, holy communion, and specific prayer stations. I pray that it will be a time of connection through the power of God’s Holy Spirit, recreating the warmth of the upper room.
Good Friday’s service of darkness is always a powerful reminder of the depth of Jesus’ suffering for all of humanity. Pastor Beth and I will share a Good Friday message, we will have powerful messages through music, and we will leave in reflective silence.
Of course, our week will conclude with Easter Sunday. We will have a sunrise service plus our three regular services on Easter Sunday. Invite friends and experience a revival of your faith this Holy week.
I depend upon your prayers each week, and I remain honored to serve this great community.
Pastor Steve Hart