Tenebrae

Tenebrae is a traditional Christian service on Good Friday, also known as the “Service of Shadows.” This solemn service is considered the culmination of Holy Week. It includes a series of readings from Holy Scripture recounting the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. These readings are followed by meditations that challenge our perception of the events on Good Friday and encourage us to reflect on the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice.

During the Tenebrae service, the church lights are gradually extinguished, symbolizing the darkness that fell over the world at the time of Jesus’ death. The service is divided into two main parts: the “Service of Light,” which consists of psalms, hymns, and prayers, and the “Service of Shadows,” which includes readings and meditations.

The readings and meditations are designed to help us understand the meaning and significance of Jesus’ death and to deepen our appreciation for the sacrifice he made for us. They also challenge us to examine our lives and consider how to follow Jesus’ example of selflessness and love for others. Overall, the Tenebrae service is a powerful and moving experience that helps us to connect with the profound spiritual significance of the Easter season.