The service of Tenebrae, or “shadows,” grew out of a combination night prayer and early morning prayer, with an additional focus on the commemoration of the passion. The latter was usually read by several deacons and later, in the middle Ages, was read by monastic choirs. The most significant feature of this service is the gradual extinguishing of the lights and candles in the room and on the altar. The bare altar table and the unvested furnishings emphasize the starkness of the events recalled. The candles represent the apostles and all followers of Christ, and the larger candle represents Christ. This year the service will be held on Good Friday, March 29th, at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. It is a wonderful service to bring a neighbor or a friend. There will be childcare available for children newborn through 5 years of age. The service will be live-streamed on the Duluth First UMC Worship channel on YouTube.