Imagine the great surprise Mary Magdalene experienced that first Easter morning! Through traditions and shared hospitality, all of us can still be surprised, too, by the power of God’s grace as we recall the final days of Jesus’ earthly life. To prepare for this Good News, Vine Street Christian Church will offer several special worship experiences April 9-16. Come, see and share in what God is doing in the world today!
Palm Sunday • April 9 at 10 a.m.—Jesus arrives at the gates of Jerusalem with great fanfare! Discover what prophetic words can we hear Jesus preaching today. And don’t forget, you can start your Sunday with Communion in the Chapel at 8:30 a.m. followed by Christian education at 9 a.m. throughout the building.
Maundy Thursday • April 13 at 6 p.m.—The familiar words, “On the night Jesus was betrayed…” will come into focus in this special communion service. As the upper room was sanctuary to Jesus and the disciples, this experience can be for us a harbor in the care of our souls.
A Prayer Vigil • April 13-14—Beginning at 7 p.m. (immediately following the Maundy Thursday service), our church will engage in keeping watch through prayer until 6 p.m. on Good Friday. Hours are divided into 30-minute segments, and we invite Vine Street participants and friends to pray during these hours. Please add your name to our vigil schedule. If you wish to come to the chapel or the Sanctuary to pray, please let us know so we can make arrangements.
Good Friday • April 14 at 6 p.m. (with singing 30 minutes prior)—There is something about singing in difficult times that especially resonates with the soul. We introduced this service last year and many of you found it to be helpful. We will gather at 5:30 p.m. to learn and practice some basic part singing. Then at 6 p.m. we will remember our Lord’s death. We will strip the chancel as part of this service, too.
Easter Sunday • April 16—Christ the Lord is risen today! Our celebration begins with a waffle breakfast in Fellowship Hall from 8:30-9:30 a.m., sponsored by the youth group. At 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary, come into the light of Christ! Organ, piano, trumpet, timpani and voices will combine to give praise to God for God’s remarkable desire to be in relationship with us. Jesus’ resurrection remains our hope! Note: Communion in the Chapel at 8:30 a.m. is cancelled for Easter Sunday.
This is the Good News of Jesus Christ! Join Vine Street Christian Church this holy season!