Holy Week Traditions Return and a New One Begins!

Cranford, New Jersey (April, 2022) - The First Presbyterian Church of Cranford, 11 Springfield Ave., Cranford, is offering multiple opportunities to experience the meaning of Easter. There’s something for all who seek to connect with others and learn about the Christian faith during the holiest time of the year. Children have several special jobs and a fun Easter Egg Hunt this year – so please bring your kids!

PALM SUNDAY, April 10 at 10am: The Holy Week narrative begins. We celebrate Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem as he was greeted with shouts of “Hosanna,” and palm branches were waived as a sign of victory. All children are welcome to kick off Holy Week by marching down the aisles waving palms, as the congregation sings, and the organ plays.

MAUNDY THURSDAY, April 14 at 7pm: The story continues as we remember Jesus’ Last Supper with His disciples before His death on the cross. We will read and reflect upon traditional Bible scriptures and communion will be served.

EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE, April 17 at 7am: The Gospels say that Jesus’ empty tomb was discovered very early in the morning. Join us outside in the spring air as the sun rises, celebrating the triumph of life over death and light over darkness. Bring a flower from your garden and flower the cross in the front lawn. Some will also be provided.

TRADITIONAL EASTER SERVICE, April 17 at 10am: Children are invited to help brighten the Sanctuary by carrying flowers forward and placing them on the Chancel (the front of the Sanctuary) during the first hymn. “Busy Bags” will be provided to keep little ones entertained. This year, traditions return and you are invited to sing the “Hallelujah Chorus” at the end of the service! This service will also be livestreamed to Facebook and YouTube.

EASTER EGG HUNT, April 17 immediately following worship: Come for worship, stay for our first-ever Easter Egg Hunt! In case of inclement weather, the Egg Hunt will take place in the sanctuary.

NEXT GRIEF RECOVERY SEMINAR, April 24 at 6:30pm by Zoom: Registration is open for the next 8-week seminar “Journey Toward Wholeness – Healing the Grieving Heart.” Call Suzanne 908-251-5641 or Pam 908-964-3263 to register.

ABOUT THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF CRANFORD - For more information about the church, contact the church office at 908-276-8440, or visit the website at firstprescranford.org/Easter. The handicapped entrance on the Cleveland Plaza side is open and available for use. Our mission: As the body of Christ inspired by the Holy Spirit, we seek to be faithful disciples living our lives as a testimony of Christ’s love for all God’s creation. We seek to spread the Word and invite others to live Jesus’ command to love one another as the Lord first loved us.