This Easter, our early worship service will be intentionally contemplative. During this time in our small chapel, there will be no anthem and no sermon. Instead, there will simply be silence, song, scripture, and prayer. We will ease into the joy of Easter by first remembering the steps of Holy Week that have led us to seek Jesus at the tomb. We will practice silence as we ponder the meaning of it all. We will “pray the scripture” (lectio divina) telling of how the women went to the tomb only to find it empty. And, we will joyously sing our alleluias! The time of worship will conclude as we recess out of the chapel onto the church lawn to adorn the cross with flowers.
This time of worship is designed especially for those who need a softer transition from the grief of Good Friday to the joy of Easter morning. Like we see for the women at the tomb, the joy of Easter is not always instantaneous. This time of worship is also a meaningful way to orient the awe of Easter within the context of the final days of the life of Jesus. On what is often an exuberant and busy day, this time of worship offers a quiet moment of reflection. It is a opportunity to center oneself in the arc of emotion – the confusion and wonder, the grief and joy – and the sacred beauty of this holy day.
Everyone will not be drawn to this kind of worship experience and it most definitely is not intended to add another obligation to your Easter celebrations. However, if reading this description piques your interest or you are feeling a holy nudge to participate, we hope you will come and look forward to worshiping with you.
The Easter Contemplative Service will begin at 8:30AM in the Chapel.