Tenebrae A Service of Darkness by Hal Hopson
A Brief Historical Background of The Service of Tenebrae
The Service of Tenebrae follows a tradition of the Church dating back to the eighth century. From Latin, the word Tenebrae means “darkness” and commemorates the final hours of our Lord’s life on earth, as he suffered death upon the cross. In the early Church, the service of Tenebrae was celebrated on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of Holy Week. The readings of the Passion of Our Lord have been compiled from the Gospel accounts of the Passion. The music for tonight’s service has been arranged by Hal Hopson and taken from his Cantata, “Tenebrae” and from Requiem by W. A. Mozart. As the candles are extinguished, they symbolize the fading loyalty of the disciples and friends of Jesus. The gradual darkening of the church portrays the diminishing light of the world as Christ was departing from it.
Songs used by permission by OneLicense.net Account #A-702337.
