Holy Week 2026 Service Schedule

Maundy Thursday, April 2nd, 7 pm

Maundy comes from the Latin mandatum, where we get “mandate.” It refers to Jesus’s mandate to follow the “new commandment,” that we love one another. On this evening we commemorate Jesus’s last night on earth, with the Last Supper as well as Jesus’s act of foot washing, reminding us how we are to be servants to one another. Our Maundy Thursday service concludes with the stripping of the altar, symbolizing what happens the following day. Our special service at GSP includes more symbols to capture the essence of our faith. This service is considered by many the most symbolic worship experience of the year.

Maundy Thursday night until Good Friday Noon - Keeping Watch

Another ancient tradition is for individuals to “stay awake” as Jesus asked of his disciples the night before he was killed. You can sign up to take a “shift” in Julian Chapel during the night and morning. Please sign-up on the sheet outside Julian Chapel, or call the Parish administrator at 520-327-6857 or email parishadmin@grace-stpauls.org. The Watch ends when the elements are consumed at the first service at noon on Good Friday.

Good Friday, April 3rd, 12:00 pm & 7:00 pm

12:00p.m. - Environmental Stations Of The Cross

The elements will be consumed and then the participants will move to the labyrinth for a creation centered Stations of the Cross experience on the labyrinth. The practice of the stations is another ancient tradition. At GSP, we will reflect on the events of Good Friday from an environmental perspective. This service will include walking for those who are able. The service will last about 30 minutes.

7:00p.m. - Tenebrae

Our main Good Friday service is the ancient tradition of Tenebrae. We move from light to darkness, both metaphorically and physically as we travel through short Gospel readings describing the events of this fateful day, followed with a musical response to each reading. It is considered by many the most emotional service of the year.

Easter Sunday, April 5th, 7:45am & 10:00am

The day arrives. The full wonder, beauty, and magnificence of the resurrection experience are captured in one service. A mini Easter Vigil including the primordial fire is followed by an explosion of light and exquisite music at both services, completing our journey to the ultimate joy of resurrection and celebration. Following the worship, GSP hosts one of Tucson’s great celebratory parties. All kids are invited for Easter activities and an egg hunt during the service. After the service we have a bouncy house, Mr. Nature’s Musical Garden Performance, a visit from Southern AZ Reptile Rescue, and gelato!