With nightfall and the beginning of this liturgy, our Lenten observance comes to an end. We gather with Christians around the world in celebrating the Three Days of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Our remembering is more than a retracing of the last days of Jesus’ life. Instead, throughout these Three Days, through word, sacrament, and ritual, we participate in the saving power of Jesus’ Passover from death to life. As the Three Days begin, we are invited to glory in the cross of Christ--our salvation, our life, our resurrection.

At the conclusion of the liturgy, the altar and chancel furnishings are removed, preparing the worship space for Good Friday. Through this stark ritual, we recall that Jesus was abandoned by his followers, stripped of his dignity, and left to face the cross alone. We depart in silence, ready to continue the celebration of the Three Days on Good Friday.