Good Friday Tenebrae Service

[Lamb]

Does your church have a Good Friday tenebrae service? Does it do the Strepitus?? Do you jump?

 

[Tigger]

My wife and I always plan on attending the tenebrae service but I can't remember what they used to create the Strepitus last year. At a previous Lutheran church I attended the Pastor used a large bible and closed it abruptly. I have to admit with the sanctuary being dark and silent I did jump.

 

[Tom85]

What is that?

 

[Lamb]

The Strepitus is done in the darkened church after the readings and it's a LOUD sound to indicate the closing of the tomb! Some pastors slam a bible shut and others use a mallet on the podium. I know it's coming and I still jump!

 

[psalms 91]

I like that

 

[Tigger]

It is very surreal. And all attendees should remain silent until out of the sanctuary.

 

[George]

Is the church completely darkened?

 

[Tigger]

The sanctuary is primarily lite by candles that are progressively put out. All except one that represence the light of Christ. Which is not put out but is covered and carried out which finishes the darkening of the sanctuary. Then there is a slightly prolonged pause only interrupted by the Strepitus. At which time the congregants file out in silence.

 

[Lamb]

My former church had a huge wooden cross laid out across the steps in front of the altar and lit with a spotlight or two. It was intense.

 

[Romanos]

That sounds to be very powerful.

 

[Tigger]

There is a segment in our service where we have the opportunity to write our pains and hurts on a piece of paper, walking up and pinning them to a cross signifying our emotional and physical wounds.

Isaiah 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.

 

[Lamb]

That's really neat!

 

[psalms 91]

Yes. I like that