Dear friends in Christ,
I hope this letter finds you well and that this season of prayer and preparation has brought you closer to the God of love, grace, and mercy. As we now turn our attention toward Holy Week and Easter, I would like to invite you to join us for the profoundly moving liturgies that mark the events of Jesus’ betrayal, death, and resurrection.
This Sunday, March 24, we begin by observing Palm Sunday, singing hosannas in remembrance of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. On Maundy Thursday, we gather with the disciples in the upper room as we commemorate the Last Supper, recalling Jesus’ new commandment of love and the gift of the sacrament of Holy Communion. On Good Friday, we sit at the foot of the cross, contemplating Jesus’ example of humility and nonviolence as he willingly gives himself up to death. Then at the Easter Vigil, we move from darkness to light as we recall God’s saving deeds throughout history, culminating in the resurrection of Jesus. Finally, we continue that observance with unbridled joy on Easter morning. Christ is risen!
A full schedule of Holy Week service may be found below. If worship between Palm Sunday and Easter has not been your practice, I encourage you to consider making this the year to experience the drama of the Triduum, or the “Three Great Days.” Participation in these events leads to a different and deeper experience of Easter joy, as we live into this journey from betrayal and suffering to resurrection, transformation, and hope.
Thanks be to God, the transformative love of Christ is alive in our congregation, inspiring us to offer ourselves to our community and the world. In doing so, we find that new life abounds—not just for those we serve, but also for ourselves. We continue to participate in the Westside Anglican Neighbourhood Ministry, sharing food and friendly conversation with those on the streets. Our refugee committee is working diligently to support the Kandeels in their transition to life in Canada. We have a thriving Godly Play program for our young people. Our phenomenal choir continues to offer beautiful music, enhancing our worship and attracting new people to our services. In all these ministries and many others, the Holy Spirit is at work among us, leading us into that abundant life Jesus has promised.
I am eagerly anticipating Holy Week and sharing the joys of Easter with all of you.
Peace and blessings,
Mother Terry+