Tenebrae
The Extinction of Light
Tuesday night of Holy Week at 7.00 pm, a moving celebration of communal
reconciliation will be celebrated in our Church. We are invited to
gather for reflection, confession and repentance in preparation for
Easter. We call to mind past failings - both personal and social,
make resolutions and amends and personally receive again the guarantee
of God's mercy and love. The paraliturgy is designed around the
traditional service of "Tenebrae", the service of extinction of light.
As the readings progress, lights are extinguished and the readings climax
in Christ's death where one, sole candle is left;
representing the single hope for us through Christ in our tradition.
At this point, the congregation stamp their feet and make noise to
recall the earthquake that occurred at the moment of Jesus' death.
Following the service of readings and diminishing light, we will celebrate
the 2nd Rite of Reconciliation - making a public examination of
conscience and a shared act of contrition. Private confession and absolution
from a priest is available at the station candles.
The hour long service concludes with a communal thanksgiving and blessing.