HOLY WEEK & EASTER AT ST. JOHN'S
The importance of Holy Week is found in the layout of all four Gospel books. Each of them dedicates two-thirds of the chapters to the life and ministry of Jesus. The last third however was deemed to be so important that it is dedicated to one week of Jesus' death, his resurrection, and the events that immediately follow. That emphasis is why we have such an intense focus and so many additional services. It is the hope of our church that you will make space to focus on the love of Christ as found in this week and you will set aside time to be present and give thanks for the gift of grace found in Jesus Christ.
In Christ,
Ripp Hardaway
Rector
Service & Event Details
Holy Visitations | March 25 – April 1 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Sanctuary will be open for those who want to sit in silence, pray, and light a candle.
Palm Sunday | March 29 at 8:45 & 11 a.m.
Nursery care offered.
On Palm Sunday, we remember Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The service begins outdoors and then with a procession of attendees waving palm branches as they go into the church. Join the Holy Celebrations Team in the breezeway between the Sanctuary and the Parish Hall between services to make your own palm cross.
Egg Stuffing Party + Potluck Brunch | March 29 at 10 a.m. in the Parish Hall
Nursery care offered.
We’ll stuff eggs for the Easter Egg Hunt and share a springtime potluck brunch. Bring an item to share based on your last name: A-F: Main, G-L: Drinks, M-R: Side, S-Z: Desserts
Worship Choir and Orchestra present John Rutter’s Requiem | March 29 at 3 p.m.
Nursery care offered.
This Requiem will prepare our hearts and minds for Holy Week. Through music offered by choir and orchestra, we are invited to reflect on the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ, to hear the lament of our sins, and to be lifted by the promise of eternal life secured through the sacrifice of God’s Son. The nursery will be open so that adults may take part in this holy and reverent musical offering.
Maundy Thursday | April 2 at 6:30 p.m.
Maundy Thursday commemorates the institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper and Christ’s washing of the disciples’ feet. At this service, attendees will be given the opportunity to wash one another’s feet or hands.
Good Friday | April 3 at 12 & 6:30 p.m.
Nursery care offered at 6:30 p.m.
During this somber service, we remember the events leading up to and including the Crucifixion. The 12 p.m. service will be spoken; 6:30 p.m. service will have music led by the Worship Choir.
Easter Egg Hunt | Canceled
Due to forecasted wet weather and muddy conditions, our community-wide egg hunt has been canceled. Easter eggs will still be available for children at St. John’s on Easter Sunday, with a some hidden around campus as well!
Easter Vigil | April 4 at 8 p.m.
The Vigil covers all of salvation history in a single service. We begin in candlelight, hearing the story of creation and other Old Testament readings. Then, midway through the service, the lights are raised and we say “Alleluia!” for the first time since the beginning of Lent. We joyfully celebrate Christ’s Resurrection and the bringing of Christ’s Light into the world. This is truly a unique service!
Easter Sunday | April 5 at 8:45, 11, and 11:15 a.m.
Nursery care offered.
On Easter Sunday, we remember and celebrate the triumphal Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead! Join us to celebrate Christ’s victory over death.
Bring some fresh cut flowers and arrive a bit early to help “flower the cross”, an Easter tradition of decorating a cross at the front of the sanctuary with fresh flowers.
To make more room for everyone this Easter, we will be offering three services on Easter Sunday. Join us at 8:45 or 11 a.m. for a traditional service with brass, organ, and choir in the Sanctuary. At 11:15 a.m., our “All Things New” service will be held in the Parish Hall, featuring guitar, percussion, and a blend of traditional hymns and modern music.