The
waning light of Good Friday afternoon was a fitting backdrop
to the solemn celebration of the Passion of the Christ. The
Blessed Sacrament was held in repose amid flowers and candles
in the side chapel - out of sight of most worshippers - while
the stark emptiness of the tabernacle symbolized Christ in
death.
An appropriate
hymn of the cross opened the ceremonies. The pastor and lay
ministers prostrated themselves before the barren altar in
silent prayer. Next came the reading of the Passion with priest,
commentators, and parishioners taking turns reading parts.
The homily again focused upon one of the lesser figures of
the story - Pontius Pilate - who played complex roles in the
crucifixion of Jesus, and about whom some legends attribute
conversion to Christianity. Following the readings and sermon,
prayers were offered for the intentions of the Church, prayers
for mankind in all of our roles in the world.
Father Taylor
bore a rough hewn cross to the foot of the altar where all
could approach, deposit a nail representing our sins, and
kiss or otherwise venerate the Cross. There was no mass on
Good Friday, so after the Our Father and communion prayers,
the Eucharist was distributed. Following meditation music
by the choir, all left in silence. |
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