In the Orthodox Church we commemorate Holy Thursday by reading the Twelve Passion Gospels. These are the four Gospels that describe the events leading up to and directly after Christ's crucifixion on the cross. Now, I know that does not sound like it would be one of the best services to attend, but because the Orthodox Church swims in symbolism, this service is truly moving.
Between the twelve readings the congregation sings the most beautifully written hymns. But the most touching, the saddest, and the most profound hymn comes after the fifth Gospel reading.
Every Orthodox Church has a large cross behind the alter. Attached to the cross is the body of Christ. During the Holy Thursday service, the cross is not behind the alter as normal. After the fifth Gospel reading, the lights are turned off. There is only candlelight. Everyone kneels down. The smell of incense is strong. Thru the royal doors, the priest comes out carrying the large cross over his shoulder; just as Christ did. It is heavy, like the cross Christ carried. The priest makes a small procession around the inside of the church while this hymn is slowly sung by one person:
Today He who hung the earth upon the waters is hung on the tree.
The King of the Angels is decked with a crown of thorns.
He who wraps the heavens in clouds is wrapped in the purple of mockery.
The priest stops, and inserts the large wooden cross into its stand in the middle of the church. He then goes to the alter, where the body of Christ has been laid. He reverently carries the body of Christ to the center of the church where the body of Christ is affixed to the cross by nails. The canter is singing:
He who freed Adam in the Jordan is slapped on the face.
The Bridegroom of the Church is affixed to the cross with nails.
The Son of the Virgin is pierced by a spear.
By this point, many are weeping, including myself.
Holy Friday we commemorate the burial of Christ.
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