Maundy Thursday at New Church

Here are some random thoughts about our first Maundy Thursday service we attended at new church:

• It took place in the chapel which is a lovely worship space, crammed full of people who overflowed into the hallway.
  
• The music was beautiful and not intrusive, but worshipful. There was a violin/piano duet for gathering music, two traditional hymns and a harpist playing during communion.
• It was nice to see one of the women associate pastors leading the service and communion, though it was opened by the senior pastor. She gave a fine message about how our lives have darkness and light intertwined much like the experience of Holy Week.
• Prayers of thanksgiving for the members who passed away in the preceding year were offered and each name was read. This is apparently a tradition here. I liked that.
  
• Communion wafers were used because it of the intinction. I much prefer tortilla or pita slices which also don't leave crumbs in the cup.
  
• We were asked to exit in silence and folks remained silent in the parking lot. Very nice.
  
• Spiritual mojo level: UP.

We're going back for the noon Good Friday service today.