The week leading up to Easter Sunday is a special time of reflection and worship for Christian people around the world as we recall the final steps Jesus took from his entry into Jerusalem, his gathering of followers at the Last Supper, his public crucifixion, and finally realizing the glory of the resurrection. We invite you to journey with us in liturgies this week at St. Paul’s. All are welcome, no matter your background or prior experience with these liturgies.
The Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday
Services on the Sunday before Easter feature both a joyful celebration of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem and a solemn remembrance of Jesus’ final moments before his death. Services at 7:30, 9 and 11:15 a.m. include the Liturgy of the Palms (a blessing of palm branches with a procession), the reading of the story of Jesus’ crucifixion (the Passion Gospel) and Holy Eucharist. The 9 a.m. service will be livestreamed on Facebook.
Holy Monday through Holy Wednesday
Services on Monday through Wednesday at 7 p.m. continue the story of what Jesus faced in the days leading up to his arrest. These liturgies are similar to a Sunday Holy Eucharist service, but with a more contemplative form. Attendees find the time of quiet reflection a welcome break from the busy days of spring.
Maundy Thursday
“Maundy” comes from the Latin word “mandatum,” which means “mandate or commandment.” This refers to Jesus’ commandment to his disciples that they love and serve one another as he had loved and served them. This service of the Holy Eucharist at 7 p.m. includes a symbolic washing of the feet, where all are welcome to come forward and experience the giving and receiving of this humble act of loving service. The Eucharist also commemorates Jesus’ Last Supper and the words he gave us for remembering his real presence with us in the bread and wine of Holy Communion. The culmination of the service includes a stripping of the altar and the removal of all symbolic elements as we exit in silence, knowing the solemn day of Good Friday approaches.
Good Friday Stations of the Cross for Families
At noon on Good Friday, people of all ages are invited to join us as we allow time for our youngest members to reflect on Jesus’ life and ministry and the world-changing way he walked among us. This interactive service enables all to walk in the footsteps of Jesus as he goes to the cross where he gives his all for love.
Good Friday Evening Service
The 7 p.m. service includes a reading of the Passion Gospel, prayers for the whole world, and Holy Communion from the bread and wine blessed on Maundy Thursday evening. The liturgical music is often chanted and solemn in nature.
The Great Vigil of Easter
The Great Vigil of Easter is the official beginning of the Easter season and a favorite service of many. We begin at dusk (8 p.m.) with the lighting of the Paschal fire in the courtyard. We process into the church to hear stirring stories from the Hebrew Bible, experience the renewal of our Baptismal Vows, and sing the first “Alleluias” of Easter. It is the most dramatic liturgy of the year and tells the story of the hope that lives in us because of the resurrection of Christ.
Easter Day
Our earliest Sunday service at 7:30 a.m. offers a quiet, traditional service without music. The order of service follows the traditional Rite I language of the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer.
The 9 a.m. service includes nursery services in our Kids’ Club for infants/toddlers through 36 months (3 years old). The liturgy follows Rite II in the Book of Common Prayer. Music features the St. Paul’s Choir and include a brass ensemble and the Bells of St. Paul’s. We have plenty of parking and seating available and love to welcome visitors. An Easter Egg Hunt takes place immediately following the service; coffee and light snacks will be available as well.
The 11:15 a.m. service is similar to that at 9 a.m., except Kids’ Club is not available. We do have a Comfort Room for those who prefer not to be in the pews; it is especially helpful for little ones who need more space.