Tenebrae at St. Theresa

Latin for “darkness,” Tenebrae is a service particular to Holy Week. A seven-candle, triangular candelabra called a “hearse” is uniquely used, with one candle representing Jesus and the rest of his followers. After each reading a candle is extinguished in the hearse, nine readings are proclaimed, symbolizing Jesus’ followers abandoning him one by one. In the end, just the candle symbolic of Christ is left burning and then is hidden. The service ends with a “strepitus” or “loud noise” traditionally made by slamming a book shut, stomping on the floor, or, in more contemporary services, musical instruments, symbolizing the earthquake that followed Christ’s death. This takes place in total darkness. At the end, the hidden candle is returned, representative of the light of Christ returning to the world. Join us for this beautiful experience at St. Theresa!