Tenebrae (Latin for “shadows” or “darkness”) is a Christian religious service celebrated in the Holy Week within Western Christianity, on the evening before or early morning of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Tenebrae is distinctive for its gradual extinguishing of candles while a series of readings and psalms is chanted or recited.

The church where I worship held their Tenebrae service on Thursday night.  I was allowed to be a reader to assist in the serving of Holy Communion.  The in the visual image of the candles each being extinguished as a different moment of the betrayal of Jesus is read has power.  It reminds me that just as those people abandoned him, we also have the option to abandon him.  I know I have not been nearly as faithful to Christ in my life as I would like to be.  So am using this visual memory of the candles being extinguished as a reminder to be more steadfast to honoring Christ in my life.  It is a great way to prepare for Easter.