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
Palm Sunday | March 24 at 8:45 & 11 a.m.
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.
Special music will be offered by our Handbell Choir (both services) and Children & Youth Choir (11 a.m. only).
Join the Holy Celebrations Team in the breezeway between the Sanctuary and the Parish Hall between services to make your own palm cross.
Maundy Thursday | March 28 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.
This service features the meditative music of the Taizé monastic fraternity in France.
Good Friday | March 29 at 12 & 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 | March 30 at 10 a.m.
All are welcome for this event at Heritage Village (1370 Church Hill Drive, NB) in New Braunfels. Activities, egg hunts by age groups, lunch, and more!
Easter Vigil | March 30 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 | March 31 at 8:45 & 11 a.m.
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.
Special music will be offered by St. John’s Worship Choir and a brass quartet.
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.
Need more information?
We love kids!
The Nursery will be open on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday. The Nursery serves infants to four years of age and is located in the downstairs children’s wing. Our staff is required to pass a background check, complete online coursework entitled Safeguarding God’s Children and training specific to St. John’s needs. We pride ourselves on providing safe, warm, and welcoming care. The Nursery will not be open on Easter Sunday so families can stay together to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection. We will have guest musicians, baptisms, special pew activities for children, and more – plenty to enjoy together.
Sunday School meets from 10- 10:50 a.m. on most Sunday mornings. Our Preschool and K-1 classes are located in the downstairs wing and 2nd grade through 5th meet in the upstairs wing. 6th through 12th graders meet in the Youth Room. Snack is provided so hurry in at 10a.m.! There will not be Sunday School on Easter morning.
Children’s Chapel takes place during the 11 a.m. service on most Sunday mornings. The children follow the child crucifer out during the Gloria and return during the peace. Lessons take place in the chapel area and follow the liturgy but presented in a child friendly and simpler format. There will not be Children’s Chapel on Easter Sunday so families can stay together to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection. We will have guest musicians, baptisms, special pew activities for children, and more – plenty to enjoy together.
If you’d rather keep your children with you at any time, that is fine with us! We have activity bags just inside the front doors of the church to keep little minds busy in the pews during services.
Reach out to Cheryl Smith, Director of Children & Family Ministries, at cheryl@stjohnsnb.com for more information.
On Easter Sunday, most will wear their “Easter Best”, but you should feel no pressure to dress up. Come as you are – we look forward to meeting you.
St. John’s is located at 312 S. Guenther Ave. in New Braunfels, Texas.
We ask you to be mindful of the importance of saving parking along Marguerite Street for those with limited mobility. If you are able to park in the lower lot or much further down the street, please do! We want to make sure that those who need closer parking spaces are able to find them as they are working much harder than the abled-bodied just to make it to church.
As much as we would love to meet you face-to-face and worship alongside you in the pews, we understand that a number of circumstances may prevent you from joining us in-person. The following services will be livestreamed on our YouTube channel thanks to the dedication of our Tech Team.
- Palm Sunday at 8:45 a.m.
- Maundy Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
- Good Friday at noon
- Easter Vigil at 8 p.m.
- Easter Sunday at 8:45 a.m.