St. James Episcopal Church in Downtown Hendersonville will offer “Tenebrae: A Service of Darkness” on Tuesday, March 26 at 7:00 p.m. The Rev. David Henson, rector of St. James, will officiate.
Tenebrae is the ancient Latin word for “darkness” and refers to the combined monastic services of Matins and Lauds, the traditional early-morning prayer hours, sung during Holy Week. The most conspicuous feature of the service is the gradual extinguishing of candles after each psalm or canticle, until only the center Christ candle remains. The music, which is plainsong (Gregorian Chant), will be sung by an all-male chamber choir.
Toward the end of the service the Christ candle is hidden, typifying the apparent victory of the forces of evil. A loud noise is then made, symbolizing the earthquake at the time of the crucifixion. However, the hidden Christ candle is ultimately restored to its place, symbolizing the resurrection. The congregation departs in silence by the light of the Christ candle.
Come to the glorious neo-gothic splendor of St. James Church and let the mystical sounds of ethereal voices wash over your soul on Tuesday evening of Holy Week. No tickets required; donations accepted.