Maundy-Thursday

Tonight’s Worship

Just as Ash Wednesday begins the Lenten time of preparation, so Maundy Thursday marks the end of Lenten preparation and the beginning of the three holy days that conclude Lent, called the Triduum, a Latin term meaning “three days” and customarily referring to the services of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday.

To underscore the end of the Lenten time of preparation, and to recall Jesus’ discourse with his disciples at the beginning of the original Maundy Thursday Passover celebration (John 13-14), the service begins with an address that reflects much of the content of Jesus’ discourse. The service and sermon progress, emphasizing the events of Maundy Thursday and especially the institution of Holy Communion. The post-communion portion of the service takes us to the Garden of Gethsemane in preparation for Good Friday. The altar, which is one of the most prominent symbols of Christ in the church, is solemnly stripped of its vestments in memory of the abandonment of Jesus in Gethsemane. Psalm 88 is sung as the altar furnishings are removed.

The service ends in silence. The congregation hears no closing blessing. Rather, the conclusion of the Maundy Thursday service naturally flows into the Good Friday service and previews the tone of that service. The congregation disperses silently and reassembles again on Good Friday evening.