Lent

Palm Sunday

A Journey from Hosanna to the Cross

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, the most sacred time in the church year. It is a day of paradox—a celebration of Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, yet also the first step toward His suffering and death.

As this service begins, we wave palm branches, joining the crowds who shouted “Hosanna!”, longing for Jesus to take His throne. But as the story unfolds, those same voices cry “Crucify Him!” The King they welcomed is handed over to wear a crown of thorns.

In keeping with the long tradition of the Church, we remember that the cross and resurrection cannot be separated. If we skip from Palm Sunday’s celebration to Easter’s victory, we miss the heart of the story—the suffering of Christ, the depth of His love, and the cost of our salvation. This is why we enter Holy Week by hearing the whole story—both the palms and the passion, both the Hosannas and the cross.

April 13 | 8:30 & 10 a.m. | Sanctuary
April 13 | 9 & 11 a.m. | Worship Center

Maundy Thursday

A Night of Humility, Sacrifice, and Communion

On Maundy Thursday, we step into the upper room with Jesus and His disciples, remembering the night when He knelt in humility, washed their feet, and shared a final meal before His journey to the cross.

The name Maundy comes from Jesus’ command (mandatum) in John 13:34—“I give you a new commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” Through the acts of this night, we witness His self-giving love—a love that serves, sacrifices, and ultimately redeems.

This service begins the sacred Three Days (Triduum) leading to Easter, drawing us into the mystery of Christ’s love, suffering, and redemption.

April 17 | 6:30 p.m. | Sanctuary

Good Friday

The Depth of Christ’s Love

On Good Friday, we stand at the foot of the cross and behold the depth of Christ’s love—a love that bore our sin, endured suffering, and triumphed through sacrifice.

This solemn service invites us to pause, reflect, and remember the cost of our salvation. Through Scripture, prayer, and worship, we walk with Jesus to Golgotha, witnessing His final words, His suffering, and the moment when darkness covered the earth.

The cross and resurrection cannot be separated. Without the cross, there is no resurrection. Without the suffering of Christ, there is no victory over sin and death. On Good Friday, we enter the weight of this moment, knowing that Sunday is coming—but first, we must walk the path of the cross.

April 18 | 6:30 p.m. | Worship Center

Easter Sunday

He Is Risen!

Come and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the victory of life over death, hope over despair, and light over darkness. Easter is the foundation of our faith, the day we rejoice that sin is defeated, the grave is empty, and Christ is alive!

Through powerful worship, Scripture, and joyful proclamation, we will lift our voices together, remembering that the resurrection is not just an event of the past, but a living reality that changes everything today.

No matter where you are on your journey, you are invited to come and experience the joy of Easter.

Sunrise Service – 6:30 a.m. | Weber Street Lawn
Sanctuary Worship – 8, 9:30, and 11:15 a.m.
Worship Center Service – 10:30 a.m.

Nursery care will be available for all services beginning at 8 a.m., with doors opening at 7:30 a.m.
More Information

Be Part of Something Bigger This Easter

Easter at First Pres is one of the most meaningful celebrations of the year—a time when we welcome new guests, gather as a church family, and proclaim the life-changing truth of Jesus’ resurrection. And we need you to help make it happen!

Serving at Easter isn’t just about filling a role—it’s about creating a welcoming, joyful experience where every person who walks through our doors feels at home. Whether it’s greeting guests, helping families check in, guiding people to their seats, or serving coffee with a smile, your presence makes a difference in someone’s Easter experience.

Ways You Can Serve:

✅ Greeters & Ushers – Welcome guests with warmth and help them find their way.

✅ Hospitality Team – Serve coffee, refreshments, and help create a friendly atmosphere.

✅ Nursery Helpers – Support our youngest visitors in a safe and joyful environment.

✅ Parking Team – Guide guests to parking spots and ensure smooth arrival experiences.

Will You Join Us?

We’re expecting many new visitors this Easter, and your willingness to serve can help them experience the love and hope of Jesus in a tangible way.

Sign up today and be part of making this Easter unforgettable!

Volunteer Today

Share the Joy of Easter this year in memory of a loved one. Your contribution will provide lovely Easter flowers to people in our congregation who have lost a loved one recently to death and to our homebound. The Easter Sunday bulletin will include the names of those being remembered in this special way. A physical card can be picked up at the Welcome Center. Please return the completed form, along with a check made out to First Presbyterian Church, to the Caring Ministries office by Monday, March 31. Cost: $30 per person or married couple remembered.