We gathered to meditate on the most sacred day of the year. The focus of our ceremony was the seven sayings of Christ uttered when he was dying on the cross. Through a series of psalms, reflections and sacred music, we were led to the foot of the Cross.
later in the darkened church the lighted candles represented our world about to be plunged into darkness.
The lights were gradually extinguished throughout the ceremony until only one flame remained, symbolising Christ. When the last light disappeared a loud noise (strepitus) was made to remind us of the earthquake on that fateful day on Calvary.
6 comments:
What were the utterings of Christ?
Hi Sarah.
The utterings of Christ were:
1.“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me”.
There are many appropriate musical compositions we used – one is “He was despised.” Handel’s Messiah.
2.“Father, forgive them for they know not what they do”.
An appropriate reflection is “He gave his back to the smiters." Handel’s Messiah.
3.To day you shall be with me in paradise”.
An appropriate reflection is “But thou didst not leave His soul in hell’ Handel’s Messiah.
4.“Mother, behold they son; Son, behold they mother.”
An appropriate reflection is “When Jesus therefore saw his Mother." Stanton’s Crucifixion.
5. “I thirst.”
An appropriate reflection is “Thy rebuke has broken His heart.” Handel’s Messiah
6.“Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit”
An appropriate reflection is “””’ Jesus said, “
Father forgive them””’ Stainer’s Crucifixion.
7."It is finished.”
‘An appropriate reflection is “He was cut off from the land of the living.’ Handels Messiah.
Best wishes
Sounds like it was a beautiful and very moving celebration.
:)
Martha
Hi Martha - indeed !!
that sounds like a moving ceremony.
i've heard the utterings of christ, but had forgotten those were all spoken from the cross.
even though i've lost my faith, i still feel reverance and awe thinking about it.
the ceremonies of Good Friday and Easter still bring me to tears. ....that bottom image is miraculous... so simple, and so evocative.
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