Our Worship Services for the Easter Triduum

Aloha! Dear sisters and brothers, we are now in the midst of Holy Week, and this Epistle newsletter is coming to you on Good Friday. This is a sober and momentous day as we contemplate the crucifixion of our Lord and prepare our hearts for what’s ahead.

Last Sunday was Palm Sunday, and our worship began with a festive procession and ended with the somber Passion Narrative. Together we considered the two processions into Jerusalem on that day—from the West, the cavalry of Rome escorting Pontius Pilate, the feared and despised ruler; and from the East, the boisterous crowd welcoming Jesus on a donkey and a colt, shouting “Hosanna!” which means “Save now!” The people had hoped to be rescued by a political king, but by the end of the week, disappointed and completely clueless to God’s purpose for the salvation of us all, they would call for his crucifixion. In these troubled times, you and I can still shout “Hosanna!” knowing that the risen Lord Jesus will respond with our eternal salvation.

Yesterday we observed Maundy Thursday with our evening service, followed by a Vigil Watch before the Altar of Repose, which continues on Friday morning until 10 a.m.

On this Good Friday, we offer services at 12 noon and 6 p.m. Following the 12 noon service, you are invited to stay for a Stations of the Cross liturgy, a meaningful way to experience the Via Dolorosa, the walk of tears, that Jesus experienced on his way to the cross and the tomb.

On Saturday, April 19, our Easter Vigil service will begin at 6 p.m. in the courtyard in front of the Chapel as we light the Paschal candle. Then we’ll move inside for our service. This service will usher us in to the dawning Resurrection of our Lord.

Our Easter service is at 9 a.m. this Sunday. It will be a glorious and joyful celebration of the Lord’s Resurrection! Following the service, the keiki can enjoy our Easter Egg Hunt on the playground, and all those who can stay will enjoy a special fellowship time in Sumida Hall—and if you can, please bring something delicious to share with our St. Tim’s ohana.

We’re grateful to our musician, Zach Hamada, and our growing choir for offering special anthems during these momentous services. We’re also thankful for our Altar Guild leaders and members, Eucharistic Ministers, Acolytes, Lectors, for Sue Ann Wargo and Paul Mahuka for all the bulletins, and for all who minister here in this most sacred time in the church year.

Dear sisters and brothers, you are in my prayers, and I ask for your prayers for St. Timothy’s Church, for our dedicated staff and our devoted lay leaders, and for your vicar. May God bless you and your loved ones during this most meaningful season of our faith.  

Aloha Ke Akua!
Fr. Pete+