John 13:1-17 tells us that Jesus washed the feet of his disciples; when Peter protested, Jesus said to Peter, "Unless I wash you, you have no share with me." I wonder if when Jesus said, "Do this in remembrance of me.", if he didn't want foot washing to be included as well. The power of getting on your knees and washing another person's feet seems strange, but there is real power in this service.
While contemplating the upcoming services, one of our dear friends from the congregation said to me, "If you are planning on having a foot washing you need to let me know in advance." It reminded me of the quote I read last year, "Foot washing. Embarrassing, unusual, and, for most of the faithful, blessedly optional."
Blessedly optional is right! Who wants to have the secrets hidden in their socks revealed? Their smelly feet, crooked toes, and bunyons on display?
Why do you suppose Jesus told Peter that unless I wash you, you have no share in me? I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this.
In anticipation of the Resurrection,
Peace of Christ Always,
George
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MAUNDY THURSDAY SERVICE
Agape Meal and Tenebrae Service
THURSDAY, APRIL 5 at 6:30 pm
Named from the Latin phrase maundatum novum, meaning "new commandment," Maundy Thursday commemorates the night Jesus said, "I give you a new commandment: that you love one another.Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another." (Jn 13:35)
Agape Meal
"Agape" is a Greek word for the highest form of love, which is unconditional and self-giving. In the early Church, Christians met regularly to share an agape or fellowship meal. This was an extension of the Passover supper tradition, and was a way for believers to show each other the love and unity they shared in Christ. Rich and poor, widows and orphans, ordinary people, masters and slaves met together as equals, sharing a common meal. It was a time of rich blessing.Following this tradition, at the conclusion of our meal we will celebrate the Eucharist, which is "thanks-giving".It is an opportunity for us to participate in the means of grace established by Christ at the Last Supper.
Reservations are needed for The Agape Meal. $5 per person. $15 per family, maximum.
Please call the church office 404-292-8212 to make reservations. |
Good Friday
April 6th
Drive-In Prayer Circle
Volunteers are needed for the noon Good Friday Service to read scripture, pray, and invite people to church on Easter Sunday. Please contact Dil and let her know if you will be able to help lead worship.
Weather permitting we will set up in the front drive with 6 stations. Entering off Memorial Drive past the sign and exiting near Publix
1. Welcoming and bulletin
2. Scripture reading.
3. Prayer
4. Scripture reading
5. Blessing
6. Invitation to join us for worship on Easter Sunday - gift bags
