Palm Sunday: Sunday, April 2
Palm Sunday Services, 9:00 and 11:00am
On this day the Church remembers Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, as well as his arrest, trial, crucifixion and death. At the 9am service, we will have a dramatic presentation of these events, and at the 11am, a more traditional reading of the scriptures related to these events.
Maundy Thursday: Thursday, April 6
New! Agape meal, 6:00pm
Bring a simple dish to share at this potluck dinner echoing Jesus’ last meal with his disciples. Especially welcome are Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as bread, hummus, fish, olives, grapes, cheeses, soup and wine.
Service of Holy Eucharist and Footwashing, 7:30pm
In this sacred service we will recall Jesus’ last meal with his disciples when he taught us to love and serve one another. We will have the opportunity to wash one another’s feet, write our prayers, or receive prayers for healing in the chapel. The altar is stripped at the conclusion of the service as we sing a Taize chant recalling his anguish in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Good Friday: Friday, April 7
Labyrinth available, 10:00am—9:00pm
Labyrinths are found in different forms on all continents, within many cultures and mythologies, carved or painted on ancient cave and church walls, and set in floors at sacred sites such as Gothic cathedrals, retreat centers, and contemporary churches. These circular paths are a way of learning and praying through movement instead of through thinking. Labyrinths seem to have emerged from the collective unconscious, representing a clear path to center, to the Divine. A classical labyrinth has seven cycles, each representing a stage of life, and seven U-turns as we learn to change course at least that many times in a normal life.
Walk the labyrinth as if on pilgrimage, without a goal beyond the experience itself. Move consciously and slowly, allowing the Divine to guide and teach. Let the path teach its own lessons. There is no one correct message. The turning circuits of a labyrinth remind us that life is change, transformation, and repentance.
Good Friday Services, 12:00 and 7:00pm
In this traditional service from the Book of Common Prayer, we will remember Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross. No Eucharist will be served. We will hear the Passion read from John’s gospel and have the opportunity to pray at the foot of the cross.
Holy Saturday: Saturday, April 8
Labyrinth available, 9:00—11:00am
Walk the labyrinth as if on pilgrimage, without a goal beyond the experience itself. Move consciously and slowly, allowing the Divine to guide and teach. Let the path teach its own lessons. There is no one correct message. The turning circuits of a labyrinth remind us that life is change, transformation, and repentance.
Walking After Jesus, 3:00pm
All children and families are invited to join us from 3-4pm. Youth are needed to help with this event in a variety of ways, so please contact Heather to participate. We will walk through the church learning about Jesus’ last week of life on earth through stories and activities. We will be served Eucharist and prepare for Easter. All are welcome and no need to RSVP. Meet in the Gathering space a little before 3pm
Easter Vigil Service, 7:30pm
In this service we will begin outside with the newly lit Paschal fire representing the light of Christ. Moving inside into the dark, illumined by candles lit from the Paschal Candle, we will have dramatic presentations of important stories of God’s liberation and healing from the Hebrew scriptures, using the Women’s Lectionary which will continue throughout Eastertide, Pentecost and Trinity Sunday. Full light then returns as we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection with joy and song, renewing our baptismal covenants and being asperged with water from the baptismal font.
Easter Celebration, 9:00pm
In the St. John’s tradition, we will have an appetizer/dessert/chocolate reception after the Saturday night Easter Vigil service. Parishioners bring appetizers, cheese and crackers, chocolate, or desserts and St. John’s will supply the wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks. Just bring your contribution to the kitchen before the service!
Easter Sunday: Sunday, April 9
Easter Sunday Services, 9:00 and 11:00am
This Festival Eucharist marks Christ’s triumph over death – our living reminder of the mystery and miracle of faith. Join us for this joyful celebration.
Easter Egg Hunt, 10:00am
Join us for an Easter Egg Hunt – hopefully outside and snow free (youth needed to assist with this), as well as activities and arts and crafts for children and families in the Parish Hall. All are welcome!
