A Little History
The observance of Passover has continued in various traditions for over 3000 years. Beginning with the call of Moses to lead the Children of Israel out of bondage, it has evolved through the years from a celebration of deliverance, to a memorial of national identity, to a symbol of personal salvation. Established in the history of the Hebrew people, its meaning goes much deeper, coming to fruition in the life and death of Jesus Christ.
From the blood of a lamb spread on a family’s doorpost to protect them from the judgment of death, to the blood of the Lamb of God shed for the sins of the world, this observance lies at the heart of our faith in the God of Abraham and His promise of redemption offered to every believer.
While churches and synagogues have a variety of ways to commemorate these events, we have taken the last Passover Jesus shared with His disciples as the template for this service. As modern-day disciples, we follow in their footsteps to “do this in remembrance of me.”
Order of Service for Our Passover Observance
A Time of Contemplation - Before we begin, we put our hearts and minds in the right place.
Telling the Story - We are led through key passages of scripture, which explain the sacrifice that was offered on our behalf.
The Foot Washing - This ritual reminds us that having a servant heart is foundational for our faith.
Sharing in the Bread - Understanding the meaning of Jesus offering His body.
Partaking of the Wine - Realizing the importance of Jesus’s shed blood.
Closing Hymn - “And when they had sung a hymn, they went out…” Matthew 26:30