Holy Week & Easter

Palm Sunday

April 12 | Saturday worship at 5 p.m.
April 13 | Worship at 8, 9, & 11:15 a.m.
With festive palm branches waving, the mood turns somber as we come to terms with the death of Jesus. Sara Olson-Smith preaches at all services.

A Palm Sunday activity is available for families during the learning hour. Meet on the North Lawn for chalk art, time for reflection, and a mini parade on the St. Paul campus.

Maundy Thursday

April 17 | Worship at 12 noon & 7 p.m.
In scripture, liturgy, and song, we mark Jesus’ last meal with his disciples. Katy Warren preaches. Fourth-graders culminate a period of preparation with their first Communion as a group at the 7 p.m. service. Childcare available from 6:45-8 p.m.

Good Friday

April 18 | Worship at 12 noon, 4:30, & 8 p.m.

12 noon A 45-minute contemplative service. Mac Mullins preaches.
3:30 p.m. Pretzel-making: Craft and eat cross-shaped creations on Good Friday, 3:30 p.m., Fellowship Hall. All ages are welcome.
4:30 p.m. Children’s service: Featuring a reflective children’s message; Children’s choirs sing.
8 p.m. Tenebrae service of darkness: Mac Mullins preaches for this somber and meditative service of readings and music. The Chorale sings.

Easter Sunday

April 20 | Worship at 6, 8, 9:30, & 11:30 a.m.
No Saturday service
With shouts of Alleluia, rumbling timpani, triumphant brass, and a dynamic ensemble (leading the contemporary service) we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord. Holy Communion is included in all services. Childcare offered at 8, 9:30, and 11:30 a.m.
6 a.m. sunrise: Begin outside around a fire in the Memorial Garden, with a procession into the Sanctuary. Candlelight transforms the dark early hours. Katy Warren preaches.
8 & 9:30 a.m. festive services: Choirs, brass, and organ fanfare mark these services. Katy Warren preaches at 8 a.m. Mark Niethammer preaches at 9:30 a.m.
11:30 a.m. contemporary: With the Open Spirit ensemble leading, Mark Niethammer brings the message of resurrection joy.

Holy Communion is included in all services. Childcare is available from 7:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

Parking: Besides St. Paul parking lots & side streets, Madison School, Vander Veer Park, and St. Ambrose lots are available.

Crowds: The largest crowds are the 8/9:30 a.m. services on Easter Sunday. Consider worshiping at an alternative service. Easter overflow will be in the Chapel with services live-streamed.

Sunday learning will not be held on Easter Sunday. A special family learning session and regular adult learning will be held on Palm Sunday. Learning will resume on Sunday, April 27, 10:15-11 a.m.