"How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you?" I Thess 3:9
Easter 2015
Dearest Trinity Families, This week I am especially feeling the impact of "Stay home, Stay healthy". All year I look forward to making the journey to Jerusalem with you on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday. You all are in my thoughts and prayers - especially the children! Below I have attached a Tenebrae service for children often used on Good Friday. On Good Friday, Anglicans worldwide enter into the darkness with Jesus by coming to a meditative service together where we extinguish the lights. "Tenebrae" means darkness, and extinguishing the lights on Good Friday helps us - young and old - enter into the holy somberness of the time. I suggest looking it over early this week to be sure you have the supplies you need. And, as always, there are some links I hope you enjoy. Let's pray for our counselors this week. They are working so hard to care for people during this difficult time. Please remember Paul and Kim Barger, Blake Edwards, Benjamin and Natalie Eggers, Becky Valentine, LaRee Rumble, and Tim Van Rheenan. Finally, these questions from Henri Nouwen have helped me focus amidst all of the temptations to be anxious, fearful or discouraged.
Did I offer peace today? Did I bring a smile to someone's face? Did I say words of healing? Did I let go of my anger and resentment? Did I forgive? Did I love? The Lord is with us. It is almost time to say, "He is Risen, He is Risen indeed!"
Julia Barger
RESOURCES:
Karla Edwards article - Karla encourages us to join in children's play. Holy Week at Home - Ideas to make the Holy Days of Easter week special at home. Prayer Walk Guide - Turn a walk around the neighborhood into a time of family prayer. The Whitsons Passover Program - Wes and Rachel usually host a Passover Seder meal for our church on Maundy Thursday. In lieu of that, here are the instructions for you to host your own meal.