Avondale E-Worship
Maundy Thursday

A Taizé Service
Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter, is the day Christians commemorate the last supper that Jesus ate with his disciples. “Maundy” comes from the Latin “mandatum”, meaning mandate or command. In John 13:34-35, the Apostle records that at this last meal, Jesus gave his disciples the following mandate, “ I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciple, if you have love for one another.”

On this day, Jesus the Lamb of God gave himself into the hands of those
who would slay him. On this day, Jesus gathered with his disciples in the
upper room. On this day, Jesus gave us this holy feast, that we who eat this
bread and drink this cup may here proclaim his holy sacrifice, find forgiveness and be partakers of his abundant life.
One of Taizé's trademarks is the singing of distinctive and much-repeated prayer chants during candlelit prayer services. Taizé music highlights simple phrases, usually lines from the Psalms or other pieces of scripture, repeated or sung in canon. The repetition is designed to help with meditation and prayer. We hope you are able to participate and find this service meaningful and reflective during this time of Holy week.

Avondale's Taizé service will be in traditional formatting with moments of silence lasting five minutes or less. The chants will be printed on the screen for your participation. You may also find it helpful to locate a calm and quiet spot with dim lighting. The service may not be viewed until 7 PM or later.
Member Care

If you know of any member concerns or needs, please email Jim or call the church office and leave a message. We will do our best to ensure all needs are met!

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Self Care and Prayer
The Labyrinth is a sacred place set aside for you to reflect, pray, and worship God. The rhythm of walking empties the mind, relaxes the body and refreshes the spirit. 

The Labyrinth can be walked in four stages, allowing you to walk with your body and rest your mind.

Remember: Before walking the labyrinth take time in gratitude to be thankful for your life. Bless the people in your life. If there is a specific event or situation troubling you (like the coronavirus) bring it to mind and form a healing question if possible (such as why am I anxious about …).

Release: Walking into the labyrinth quiet the mind, let go of the chatter and release any tension. Open your heart to feel whatever it might feel. Become aware of your breathing making sure you are taking slow deep breaths. Relax and move at your own pace. 

Receive: While standing or sitting in the center, use this space as a place of reflection. Pause and stay as long as you like. Open yourself to God. Listen to God’s small inner voice. Use this time to pray and be honest with God about the things you need to say. 

Return: While walking out of the labyrinth, take the same path you followed to go in. Walking out experience the sense of well-being, healing, energy, and peace.

Prayers You Might Choose to Offer

"I place myself in your presence O God."

"Thank you God for ______. I praise your name because you _______."

"Lord search me and know me for you have created me. Give me the strength to serve you and to _____."

While exiting, offer words of praise and thanksgiving!
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