In a traditional Maundy Thursday service we get more physically involved with the worship than at any special service.
First there is the experience of tangible and personal forgiveness. For at least a dozen years the individual proclamation of forgiveness has been given and received by everyone at the communion rail with the laying on of hands and the words, "In obedience to the command of Jesus Christ, I forgive you all your sins." Giving and receiving forgiveness to and from each other are--parents, spouses, children, grandparents, grandchildren, neighbors, relatives. There is always good chance that many of those forgiving and being forgiven truly do have a hurt between each other in the past.
Additionally, many churches have a foot-washing ceremony on this night, in imitation and obedience to Jesus washing his disciples' feet. Because foot-washing is no longer a part of our modern societies, some church will include a hand-washing ceremony instead.
And most commonly, a Maundy Thursday service includes Holy Communion, the church's most embodied worship experience. Some churches will also have kids receive their first communion at this time, and as a child get's that first sip of wine, their expression will often leave no doubt that this is a bodily experience. While in seminary I remember one moment when a young girl took her first sip of communion wine; her eyes shot open, and she said with her facial expression and with a loud voice, "Whao!"
In this unusual time we could do none of these things together, but I sincerely hope people are encouraged to do these things in their homes, in their daily lives, with those closest to them. We are in constant need of forgiveness, and offering forgiveness is a very powerful way to show love and compassion. Many of those deemed "essential workers" are the very ones who wash and tend to others, whether seniors or young children. And all of us eat every day. May each of these moments be times for us to experience and receive God's love, and to live out our faith in Jesus Christ every day, everywhere, and with everyone we meet.
It is my hope that recording this service in two congregations can help bring home the importance of the unique places and situations each of us are in these days. My hope is that it will also help strengthen the connection between our two congregations as we seek to partner in ministry and support one another as we enrich our faith communities, minister to our rural neighbors, and join our mission and ministry with all God's people around the world.
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