What is a “Tenebrae Service” and why do it during Holy Week? [download]

Are you wondering what a Tenbrae Service IS?

Here is what you need to know (and why you should use this download to do it with your family in Holy Week):

Tenebrae is an ancient form of worship that meditates on Our Lord’s suffering and death.  It is composed of a series of Scripture readings that are punctuated by the gradual extinguishing of candles that symbolize the gradual extinguishing of Christ’s life on the cross.  

The liturgy culminates in almost complete darkness, followed by a loud noise that symbolizes the earthquake that occurred when Jesus died, and it concludes with a single light reappearing that reminds us of the hope we have in Jesus’ resurrection.  

Especially for children, this combination of candles and Scripture is a beautiful way to meditate on Jesus’ suffering and death. What better time to do this than Holy Week.

Now, while Tenebrae services are slowly becoming more popular, many families still aren’t able to attend one at their local parish.

Enter our newest download: Tenebrae Service At-Home (votive candle craft).

This download includes the Scripture readings, prayers, and bonus votive candle wraps that can be used to pray a Tenebrae Service at home as a family.

Your kids can color and cut out each of the votive candle wraps for each candle so they have a visual for each meditation.

Then, Mom or Dad can lead the service by lighting each of the candles, reading the Scripture citations, and extinguishing each candle at the end of the Scripture reading.

Gradually, the candles are extinguished symbolizing Jesus’ Passion ending with His Death on the cross.

The liturgy ends with only a single candle lit, which represents the hope in Christ’s resurrection, and a loud noise meant to symbolize the earthquake that occurred after Jesus died. When there is only one candle left lit, the Tenebrae service should end with a loud sound, for example, knocking on a table or closing a book loudly. Spend a few minutes in silent reflection.

This is an download that can be used over and over again year:

Psst–and don’t forget this download too for Good Friday!

Finally, we had a very special announcement revealed in the National Catholic Register this morning! You can get a sneak peak in this article.