Tenebrae service
April 1 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
The service begins with the church lit, but 15 candles (often on a triangular stand called a hearse) are extinguished one by one after scripture readings and psalm. At the end, a loud noise (like slamming a book) is made to symbolize the earthquake at Christ’s death and the closing of the tomb. The service concludes in near-total darkness, with worshippers leaving in silence to contemplate the death of Christ before the joy of Easter.
Originating in medieval monastic communities, the Tenebrae service focuses on reflection, sorrow, and the profound, temporary darkness before the resurrection.
