(Childcare available)

On Good Friday, we remember Jesus’ suffering and death on a cross. Many churches may mark the hours of the day through the Stations of the Cross, a Tenebrae service, or reading the Passion Readings.

Tenebrae

Tenebrae is Latin for “shadows.” A Tenebrae service is somber and will include candles gradually being extinguished as the last words of Jesus before his death are read from the Bible.

Stations of the Cross or The Way of the Cross

Many churches set up stations with art, scripture, and even re-enactments of what happened to Jesus as he was betrayed and buried. This could involve up to 14 depictions of Christ’s suffering and death. Depending on the event, many are made for children to participate in with hands-on activities. Other events are intended for quiet, individual reflection at each station. (All Saints’ offers a family-friendly version on Saturday titled “The Road to Resurrection.”)

Liturgy of the Passion

Like on Palm Sunday, churches may read the Passion Narrative as a dramatic reading combined with prayer and music.

Collect

Almighty God, we beseech you graciously to behold this your family, for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed and given into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon the Cross; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (BCP, 2019)