Holy Week is one of the most profound experiences of the whole of the Christian year. From early times, Christians have observed the week before Easter as a time of special devotion. As the pilgrim Egeria recorded in the late fourth century, Jerusalem contained many sacred places that were sites for devotion and liturgy. Numerous pilgrims to the Holy City followed the path of Jesus in his last days. They formed processions, worshipped where Christ suffered and died, and venerated relics. From this beginning evolved the rites we observe today on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil). These services provide a liturgical experience of the last days of Jesus' earthly life, as well as the time and events leading up to his resurrection. If you have never been part of the Holy Week experience, we encourage you to join us this year.

Of course the entire week is leading us to celebrate the triumph of Jesus and conquering of death. Beginning on Saturday night, our Easter Vigil tells the story of God’s saving deeds throughout the ages and sings the first alleluia of Easter. Then Easter morning, the celebration burst forth with Easter flowers, festive music, and the Good News coming from the empty tomb. Father Joe Greene will be our preacher on Easter Sunday. Our Easter Egg hunt and festive reception on the lawn begins at 9.00 am sharp, and the entire community is invited to attend.