Clergy from left, Deacon Amy Schmuck, Deacon Cynthia Biddlecomb, retired, The Rev. Mary Ann Hill and The Rev. Lynn Finnegan. Photo by Nate Limback/ladailypost.com

By The Rev. Mary Ann Hill
Rector
Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church

Today, Palm Sunday, begins the holiest week of the Christian year. Traditionally churches celebrate with processions with palm branches and readings remembering Christ’s entry into Jerusalem.

Maundy Thursday marks the beginning of the three holiest days. Maundy comes from the Latin word “mandatum” or commandment. The worship on this day recalls the Last Supper and Jesus’ commandment that his followers adopt the practice of serving one another as Jesus served them. Additionally, some churches hold an all-night prayer vigil after the end of the Maundy Thursday service.

Good Friday is the day when we recall Christs’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion. Many Christians observe this day by following the Way of the Cross, pilgrimages (like the one to Chimayo), and a reading of passion Gospel.

For the first time in many years, the ecumenical Three Hours Service returns to Trinity on the Hill from noon until 3 p.m. The three hours service includes prayers, choral anthems, hymns, periods of meditative silence, and reflections on the final words of Christ, offered by local clergy. Clergy from First United Methodist, the Evangelical Lutheran Church, White Rock Baptist, White Rock Methodist, the United Church, and the Episcopal Church will offer the reflections. Fr. Colin Kelly will be back with us for the first time in many years. Music will be provided by the choir of TOTH directed by Ms. Louisa Singleton, accompanied by organists Dr. Margaret-Mary Sauppé and Dr. John Singleton. The service begins at noon at 3900 Trinity Drive. All are welcome!

Saturday evening our churches will hold observe one of the most ancient church services:

The Great Vigil of Easter. This service goes back to the worship of the earliest Christians and includes readings, hymns, prayers, baptism, and, typically, lots of candles. It recalls the saving deeds of God who redeemed humankind through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Many people consider the Great Vigil their favorite service of the entire Church year.

And last, but not least, all of our churches will hold joyous celebrations on Easter Sunday morning. Those of us in Los Alamos will participate in the Community Sunrise Service at Ashley Pond at 6:10 a.m. Easter morning, in addition to our regular services.

On behalf of my colleagues, I invite you to join us for any or all of these special services:

Maundy Thursday:

7 p.m. Bethlehem Lutheran, Holy Faith (Santa Fe), and Trinity on the Hill
Overnight prayer vigils at Holy Faith and Toth

Good Friday:

12-3 p.m. Ecumenical Service; 6 p.m. TOTH
4 p.m Children and Family Service; 7 p.m. BELC
7 a.m.; 12-3 p.m.; 7 p.m. Holy Faith

Saturday Great Vigil:

7 p.m. BELC
7:30 p.m. Holy Faith
8 p.m. TOTH

Easter Day:

6:10 a.m. at Ashley Pond
8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. TOTH
9 a.m. BELC
8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Holy Faith

Editor’s note: ‘All Shall Be Well’ is a column written by local women clergy including The Rev. Mary Ann Hill, Rector, Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church (momaryannhill@gmail.com); The Rev. Lynn Finnegan, Associate Rector, The Episcopal Church of the Holy Faith, Santa Fe (rev.lynn@holyfaithchurchsf.org); Deacon Amy Schmuck, Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church (deaconamy@bethluth.com); and ELCA Deacon Cynthia Biddlecomb, M.Div., retired (czoebidd@gmail.com).