The Passion of Christ
On this holy Sunday we begin by remembering Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The service opens with a reading of that event from the book of Matthew. As we sing “Hosanna,” the children will process into the respective services with palms. The mood shifts when we get to the readings, as the remainder of the service focuses on the passion of Christ. We will read the passion narrative from the Gospel of Matthew in three sections. A brief reflection will follow each reading, which will comprise the sermon for the day.
Scriptures
Matthew 21:1–11
Isaiah 50:4-9a
Matthew 27:11-61
Matthew 27:11–26 (First Section)
Matthew 27:27–44 (Second Section)
Matthew 27:45–61 (Third Section)
Prayer of the Day: Almighty and everlasting God, You sent Your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ, to take upon Himself our flesh and to suffer death upon the cross. Mercifully grant that we may follow the example of His great humility and patience and be made partakers of His resurrection; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.