HOLY WEEK & EASTER

Holy Week and Easter are at the heart of the Church’s year, and the foundation of Christian faith & worship. ​

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Our special services follow Jesus through the dramatic events of his last week, from his entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday challenging political and religious power, then through the events of his betrayal & crucifixion on  Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. Our joyful celebration of the resurrection begins after sundown on Holy Saturday with the lighting of the new fire and Paschal Candle, and then on Easter Day itself. Following the story of Jesus through Holy Week makes Easter more meaningful and more joyful, and we invite you to join with us as we make this prayerful journey.

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The music list can be viewed and downloaded (see right).

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GOOD FRIDAY, 18 APRIL

12noon: At the Foot of the Cross

Marking the beginning of the three hours Jesus was on the Cross, we gather in church for silence, readings and hymns until

1.15pm: Liturgy of the Cross & Communion

The parish choir leads the traditional liturgy of Good Friday, and the congregation are invited to venerate the cross as a sign of their devotion and prayer on this most solemn of days. The service ends with communion from the reserved sacrament and ends around 3pm.

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HOLY SATURDAY, 19 APRIL

8.30pm: Vigil & First Mass of Easter

Beginning outside the main door of the church, the Easter Fire is kindled and the Pascal Candle is lit and carried into the church in darkness. The Paschal Candle is honoured with incense and the deacon sings the Exsultet, the ancient hymn of blessing. The service continues with a candlelit vigil of readings and prayers and then the proclamation is made that 'Christ is risen!' and the lights are turned on as the great reredos behind the high altar is opened revealing the image of Christ in glory. The culmination of the liturgy is the first Communion of Easter - celebrated afterwards with a glass of fizz!

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EASTER DAY, 20 APRIL

8am Quiet Communion

A said service at the high altar to celebrate the resurrection

10am Parish Mass for Easter Day

We gather as a church family to celebrate the joy of the resurrection, ending with an Easter Egg Hunt for the children in the hall garden and more fizz for the grown ups!

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