Good Friday
Hymn: O Sacred Head Now Wounded
In this post you will find a series of resources for you to use in your homes this Good Friday. Check out one or two, or combine them as they suit your needs. Throughout the post you will find links for files in PDF format should you wish to download and/or print.
As you begin, spend a moment in prayer to focus your heart.
May God deepen our appreciation of his sacrifice for our salvation on this most sobering of days. – Pastor Jonathan
Pray: The Collect for Good Friday
Lord Jesus, you carried our sins in your own body on the tree so that we might have life. May we and all who remember this day find new life in you now and in the world to come, where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.
Listen: Message from Pastor Jonny for Good Friday
Pastor’s Audio Message: Good Friday
The audio file linked above is very large. Please be patient if it takes a few minutes to load. The Scripture lessons are linked to the left or above depending upon your device.
Reflect: “The Seven Last Words of Christ”
For centuries Christians have taken time on Good Friday to reflect on the seven last words that Jesus spoke from the cross as he died. Recorded in the Gospels, these last words take us to the centre of Jesus’ experience as well as affirm what Jesus’ crucifixion accomplished — forgiveness, hope, provision, anguish. The link below is a series of reflections on each of the seven words of Jesus.
The Seven Last Words of Christ – Reflections for Holy Week by Rev. Dr. Mark D. Roberts – Seven Words From the Cross (Click for PDF)
Watch & Listen: Bach's "St. Matthew Passion"
J.S. Bach has been called “the Fifth Evangelist” (after Matthew, Mark, Luke, & John). Throughout his lifetime he used his remarkable gifts to compose some of the most profound sacred music, signing off his scores with the phrase Soli Deo Gloria — For the Glory of God Alone. Bach’s “St. Matthew Passion” is regarded as one of his masterpieces. It is based on Matthew 26 & 27 — the account of Jesus’ suffering & death, and was written to be performed as a part of a worship service.
It’s long — this link takes you to a performance that is almost 3 hours, and this PDF file (St. Matthew Passion) is the original German with English translation so that you can follow along.
Pray: Prayers of the People for Good Friday
Prayers of the People — this link takes you the Lutheran Core website where you will find the prayers online. This PDF file (Good Friday Prayers of the People) is a transcript of the prayers that you can print if you wish.
It is our prayer that these resources will bring meaning to your Good Friday worship.
Please note: There are also many resources available at the NALC website including a Good Friday liturgy and a Good Friday message from Bishop Dan Selbo.