St Philip's Calendar

Description

Tenebrae is a traditional service during Holy Week—The name Tenebrae is the Latin word for "darkness" or "shadows." One of the most conspicuous features of the service is the gradual extinguishing of candles until only a single candle, considered a symbol of Christ remains. This light is also removed towards the end of our service but is restored to its place as we listen to the Benedictus. By this single light we all depart this service in silence. Most of the readings from the Hebrew scriptures and lament the pain of a people longing for hope within a fragile world.