A Tenebrae Service

The service of Tenebrae, meaning “darkness” or “shadows,” has been practised by the church since medieval times. Originally a service for monks, Tenebrae later became an important part of the worship of all believers during Holy Week. We join Christians of many generations throughout the world in using this liturgy.

Tenebrae is a prolonged meditation on Christ’s suffering. Readings trace the story of Christ’s passion, the music portrays his anguish, and the power of silence and darkness suggests the drama of this momentous day. As lights are extinguished, we ponder the depth of Christ’s suffering and death; and we remember the cataclysmic nature of his sacrifice as we hear the overwhelming sound of the clashing symbols. The service concludes with a candle hidden but not extinguished. The symbolism is that darkness is winning, but it has not overcome. With the veiled but persistent flame of the Christ candle at the conclusion of the service, we see a glimmer of hope and anticipate the joy of ultimate victory in 3 days.