As the season of Lent continues to unfold, we will approach the final days known to Christians as Holy Week. Beginning with Palm Sunday, April 13, we recall the story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. As the authors’ remember this event, Jesus comes into the city in a most humble way – riding on a donkey. With nothing more than the cloaks on their back and the branches from nearby trees, the people begin to gather an form a celebration as Jesus comes into Jerusalem.
Later in the week, we will gather for worship at 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, April 17, for the remembrance of Jesus’ last meal with his followers and disciples. Maundy Thursday, which most scholars agree gets its name from the Latin word “mandatum,” which is the first word in the phrase “A new commandment I give to you that you love one another as I have loved you. (John 13:34) During that service the sacrament of communion will be served.
Good Friday service is being hosted here at Hope United Church of Christ, as we worship with the congregation members and friends of First Congregational United Church of Christ on April 18 at 6:30 p.m. This service is being planned by Pastor Bob David and Pastor Mary Beth Hartenstein and is open to all individuals to come and join in the remembrance of Jesus’ crucifixion and death.