CANDLES

We light a light in the name of the God who creates life, the savior who loves life, and the Spirit who is the fire of life. Be still and aware of God’s presence within and all around.

 

READ: JOHN 13:1-14, 31b-35

 

PONDER

What word or phrase stands out to you in the reading? What is Jesus doing when he washes his disciples’ feet? How is this a symbol of love? Is it more difficult to wash someone’s feet or have your feet washed?

 

ACT: FOOT WASHING CEREMONY

Foot washing is a sacred act of love of which Jesus said, “If I have washed your feet, you also ought to wash each other’s feet.” If you are with your family, wash each other’s feet in whatever way you deem best (wash cloth, water basin, etc.). If you are doing this service by yourself, fill a basin or tub with warm water, put your feet in it, and imagine for a moment Jesus, the savior of the world, washing your feet.

 

PRAYER

Almighty Father, whose dear Son, on the night before he suffered, instituted the Sacrament of his Body and Blood: Mercifully grant that we may receive it thankfully in remembrance of Jesus Christ our Lord, who in these holy mysteries gives us a pledge of eternal life; and who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

CANDLES

We now extinguish our candles and will not light them again until Easter. We remember the darkness of Jesus’s last days, and we wait for the dawn of Easter morning.