Join us for a celebration of Tenebrae on the evening of Maundy Thursday, March 28, at 7:00 pm. Maundy Thursday is the Thursday before Easter Sunday, and this distinctive and moving service helps us to recall the events of the Last Supper. The word “Maundy” is derived from the Latin word mandatum, which means “commandment” or “mandate.” It refers to the “new commandment” that Jesus gave his disciples during the Last Supper, specifically in the Gospel of John:
I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.
~ John 13:34 (NRSVUE)
This year on Maundy Thursday, members of our congregation perform a theatrical interpretation of some of the people who knew Jesus, sharing their memories and thoughts about how He lived. Afterward, we share the sacrament of Communion so all can participate in the experience. Here in Oldtown, our bread is gluten-free, and our cup is filled with simple grape juice, so none will have reason to feel excluded. All are welcome at the table, regardless of age, faith, church affiliation, or life experience. In the words of our denomination, “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”
After the service of Communion, we light candles and sing and pray by candlelight. As the last song fades, the darkness recalls the days when Jesus was taken away to be crucified.
You can always expect an extravagant welcome, as described in our Welcome Statement, and more when you join us for worship. In the words of our denomination, “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.” We look forward to seeing you on Maundy Thursday.
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