The First Baptist Church of Brownwood will offer services for Holy Week this week on Thursday and Friday evenings, and Sunday morning.  On Thursday, the church will observe Maundy Thursday, the evening on which Christ shared his final meal with His disciples.  Tradition holds that the word “Maundy” is derived from the Latin “mandatum,” or mandate.  In John’s biblical account of Jesus’ last supper, Christ tells His disciples “A new command [mandate] I give you: Love one another” (John 13:34a, NIV).  This service will focus on sharing communion, or the Lord’s Supper, together, which will be accompanied by hymns and scripture readings.  The Maundy Thursday service will begin at 6:30 PM in the sanctuary.

The church will hold its Good Friday observance at 6:30 PM Friday.  This service, often referred to as Tenebrae, meaning shadows, will follow the last hours in the life of Jesus from His betrayal and arrest to his crucifixion and burial.  A very simple service, it will involve readings from scripture, congregational hymns, and select anthems sung by the Sanctuary Choir.  The Good Friday service will also be held in the FBC sanctuary.

Easter Sunday morning events will begin with Sunday School at 9:30 AM.  Small groups are offered for all ages, and will be held in various locations at the church, including the newly remodeled children’s wing.  Following Sunday School, the Easter morning worship celebration will begin at 10:50 AM in the FBC sanctuary.  All three Holy Week services are open to the public.