When I was in seminary I was fortunate to be part of an amazing trip to the Middle East. We traveled through Syria, Jordan, Egypt and Israel and then finished the trip in Greece.
A highlight was a climb to the top of Mt. Sinai (where Moses received the Ten Commandments). What made the climb even more spectacular was that we began at 2:00 in the morning, on camel back. The camels carried us about halfway to the top, we climbed the rest of the way in darkness. Then we waited in darkness for the sun to rise over the Sinai desert.
It was a sight I will never forget.
Sometimes it seems to really experience the beauty of sunrise we must first journey through darkness - even an uphill climb in darkness.
That's why it's so important to pause and experience the darkness of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday before we hurry to the celebration of the Son Rise on Easter Morning.
Maundy Thursday @ Grace
Thursday, April 1, 7:00 p.m., Founders' Chapel
Quiet prayer and reflection from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m., followed by a presentation of "The Life of Christ" by our Worship Team.
Afterwards, there will be guided prayers for healing and wholeness.
Good Friday @ Grace- Friday, April 2
6:00-7:30 p.m., Founders' Chapel - Quiet prayer and reflection
7:30 p.m., Sanctuary - "The Seven Last Words of Christ" -- A Sacred Cantata, by Theodore Dubois presented by our Chancel Choir and Aaron Wilson, Organist.
But it's just as important not to miss celebrating the light of Easter.
Easter @ Grace, Sunday, April 4
7:00 a.m., Courtyard, Sunrise Service with a brass quartet and choral ensemble.
9:00 & 11:15 a.m. , Sanctuary - Easter Celebrations led by our Worship Team, Chancel Choir, and Festival Orchestra.
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