Good Friday Tenebrae
As we consider the sufferings and death of Jesus tonight, we use a service called “Tenebrae,” which is a La n word meaning “darkness.” It is a solemn service of reflec on, intercession, and adora on for God’s Son as he offers his life in payment for the world’s sin. It is intended to recall, in word and symbol, the closing hours of Jesus’ Passion (from the La n word for “suffering”). As the service progresses, darkness gradually descends as lights and candles are ex nguished, symbolizing the darkness which surrounded the cross at Calvary and the gradually fading life of Jesus. The Christ Candle, however, is not ex nguished but removed for a short me to symbolize the body of Christ that was hidden in the grave un l the third day. At the end of the service, the Christ Candle is returned, giving tes mony that we believe that Jesus Christ has conquered death, hell, sin and Satan for us. This assures us that we have been reconciled with God and that by faith in his Son, we have eternal life. Worshipers are invited to silently reflect and pray a/er the service and to look forward to the dawn of a glorious Easter Day.
Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church
April 10, 2020