Maundy Thursday (April 17) is the first day of the Paschal Triduum, (or the Three Days). It shares a duality similar to what we experience in Palm/Passion Sunday by moving us from one state of being to another toward the redemptive power of the crucifixion and resurrection. As described by the Presbyterian Church (USA), it is both a service of celebration through Communion and servanthood through foot washing as well as a service of solemnity by the stripping the church to signify the darkness found with the absence of Jesus. “The stark, bare, unadorned church now reflects Jesus’ abandonment during the night in Gethsemane. The visual aspect of the transformed worship space gives people a dramatic depiction of Christ’s desolation” (PC(USA)).
At the conclusion of the service, the congregation departs in silence. The Maundy Thursday worship service will be broadcast at 7:00 p.m. on KSPI Radio, 780AM/94.3FM