Lent 2025: Setting the Table
Lent is a sacred journey that leads us to the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection. It is a season calling us to reflect on the boundless love of God revealed in Jesus, and his victory over sin, evil, and death. During Lent, we are invited to recall what it means to be disciples—followers of Jesus—each day of our lives.
In the final days of Jesus’ life, he gathered with his closest friends to share the Passover meal, connecting the ancient story of God’s liberating power with his own sacrifice. After the resurrection, Jesus’ disciples gathered in his name, breaking bread together in his memory to experience him in their midst. This sacred tradition continues today, as we come together in remembrance.
But the Upper Room was not the only place Jesus was at a table or told stories about tables. In this Lenten sermon series, Setting the Table, we invite you to explore some of the “table stories” from the Gospel of Luke. Through these reflections, we are challenged to consider how we can set the table of God’s love, justice, grace, and mercy in the world around us.
Holy Week
Palm Sunday – April 13, 10am
As Jesus entered Jerusalem, crowds gathered on either side of the road. As he passed, people waved palm branches and shouted, “Hosanna – blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” Palm Sunday is an opportunity for us to worship together in a festive atmosphere even as we prepare our lives and hearts for the sharp contrast that lies ahead. Rev. Jordan Bucey leads the service.
Maundy Thursday – April 17, 5:30pm
Remembering Jesus’ final meal with his disciples and his new commandment: “You shall love one another as I have loved you.” We will begin with a light dinner and end with a contemplative walk through the labyrinth.
Good Friday – April 18, 7pm
Our traditional Good Friday service will feature the “Stabat Mater” by Welsh composer, Paul Mealor, performed by the AHCC Sanctuary Choir and strings, as well as the hauntingly beautiful “Adagio for Strings,” by American composer, Samuel Barber.
The 13th century Stabat Mater text (“The mournful mother was standing”), is a powerful meditation upon the sufferings of Mary during the crucifixion of her son. As he hangs, dying on the cross, she shares his agony and his pain. However, the poem is also an offering of hope that through the sacrifice of Christ, we may all be free of suffering. The 24-minute setting is divided into four sections, that are performed without a break.
Sunday, April 20, 5:45am Easter Sunrise, Elizabeth Park Overlook (corner of Prospect and Asylum Avenue) – Scripture says that on the third day a group of women arrived at the tomb while it was still dark. Celebrating the resurrection of Christ we gather to watch the sunrise over the horizon and proclaim the Good News of that indeed, He Lives!
Sunday, April 20, 10am, Easter Worship – All are welcome to this celebratory worship service in our historic sanctuary, where the symbols of death are cast aside and the light of the resurrection shines forth in hymns of praise, words of hope, and fabulous music. Rev. Erica Thompson preaching.
Following worship, all are invited to have their photo taken by the Easter cross and receive a copy to download later that same day!