Holy Week at First Community
Maundy Thursday |April 17| Dinner at 6 pm | Service at 7 pm | Wing Grace Hall
On this holy night, we remember the final meal Jesus shared with his disciples—the moment of tenderness, vulnerability, and love before his betrayal and arrest. It is a night of deep meaning and sacred tradition, as we enter into the heart of the Passion story together.
This year’s Maundy Thursday gathering will take place around shared tables in Wing Grace Hall, echoing the intimacy of that Upper Room. We’ll begin with a simple, nourishing meal of soup, salad, and bread—an expression of community and care. As the meal draws to a close, we will move into a time of quiet reflection, scripture, candlelight, and communion, woven together in a service that invites us to remember and embody Jesus’ commandment to love one another.
All are welcome at the table—come just as you are, and take your place in this sacred story.
Please note: there is no Gathering on Wednesday, April 16.
Good Friday | April 18 | 12 pm | Sanctuary at North
On this most solemn day of the Christian year, we gather in reverent silence to remember the suffering, passion, and ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Through word, prayer, and music, we journey to the cross, holding space for grief, reflection, and awe at the depth of God’s love revealed in Christ’s suffering.
The Marble Cliff Choir will lead us in this moving Tenebrae-style service, offering poignant and powerful music that invites us deeper into the story of the crucifixion. The service will be shaped by sacred scripture, contemplative silence, and stirring choral works that speak to the sorrow and beauty of this holy moment.
Featured music includes:
- He Never Said a Mumbalin’ Word (Traditional Spiritual)
- O Sacred Head Now Wounded (Passion Chorale)
- Surely He Hath Borne Our Griefs / And With His Stripes We Are Healed – G.F. Handel
- Crucifixus – J.S. Bach
- And Can It Be? – Dan Forrest
- Ach Herr, lass dein lieb’ Engelein – J.S. Bach
Clergy will lead us in scripture and prayer, culminating in a sermon offered by Rev. Dr. Glen Miles. We invite you to enter into this sacred space with open hearts, as we bear witness to the sorrow of the cross and await the promise of Easter morning.
Celebrate
Easter With First Community
You're invited to celebrate Easter at First Community Church! You'll experience a welcoming atmosphere and a powerful message of hope.
We can't wait to meet you this Easter!
New to First Community? Check out our At a Glance webpage here, which will give you important information regarding your first visit.
EASTER SERVICE TIMES BY LOCATION:
FIRST COMMUNITY NORTH:
- 9 am Wing Grace Hall- sermon by Glen Miles, music by the Common Grace band
- 11am Sanctuary North - sermon by Glen Miles, music by the Chancel Choir and brass quartet
Childcare will be offered at 9 and 11 am services for children 5 and under. There will be no Sunday School as children will remain in service with their families. A special Easter bulletin will be given to all children in worship.
FIRST COMMUNITY SOUTH:
- 6:30 am Sunrise Service - on the lawn South
- 10 am Sanctuary South - sermon by Glen Miles, music by the Cambridge Choir and brass quartet
Childcare will be offered at the 10 am service for children 5 and under. There will be no Sunday School as children will remain in service with their families. A special Easter bulletin will be given to all children in worship. There is no childcare for the 6:30 am service.