For Good Friday: The “Stations” Service

As I participated in planning the first Good Friday service at The Plant I wrote
four different services, each unique in their own way and highly
adaptable to many different traditions and needs.

The other three services are available for download here (Seven Words A), here (Seven Words B), and here (Stations of the Cross Service).

I have attached a copy of the "Stations" service as a pdf.  The full text of the service is after the jump

“Stations” Service

Summary: There would be four stations set up chronicling the important events that lead up to the crucifixion. The congregation would break up into groups and switch stations after each reading/prayer (there would have to be four or five readings or prayers).

First Station: The Last Supper
The group would read a passage from the Last Supper and take communion together.

Second Station: The Trial
The group would read the trial passage and reflect on “who we say Jesus is.”

Third Station: The Denial of Peter
The group would pray that they do not deny Christ but take up his cross along with them.

Fourth Station: The Crucifixion.
The seven words of Jesus on the cross would be read and reflected on.

Meditation: After the congregation has completed all of the stations they would gather and stand as a three to four minute meditation is preached. All would exit quietly.

Setting: The room would be dim the whole time, dark enough to create ambiance but with enough light that people can read.

Note: This service is especially ideal if the church either (A) has a large room or (B) wants to combine their Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services.  We often forget how seamlessly the Last Supper flows into the passion of our Lord.  This service takes those gathered through the flurry of events that culminated in the crucifixion.