1. Change potentially inflammatory, antisemitic-sounding liturgy. Explain the change in advance, making it a teaching opportunity.
2. Blessing of the palms happens somewhere outside the church.
3. Holy week liturgies are nothing to be afraid of. They are totally doable and somewhat customizable.
4. Pace is important. Getting bulletins started early is crucial for office administrators’ sanity and for catching mistakes early.
5. Sometimes it’s okay to do the same thing as last year. People will love the familiarity. That’s why some come once or twice a year – to hear familiar music and liturgy. Give it to them.
6. We may entice folks to come a little more often with our riveting sermons and generous hospitality.
7. Don’t forget to promote the Triduum. Many will still not come, but some may only need to hear it is being offered.
8. Agape meals are cool. Maundy Thursday is someone’s favorite holy day. Remember this and give them the experience they need. Foot washing is not for everyone. Essential oils can be a nice touch, but don’t assume everyone wants them. Thank your volunteers.
9. Good Friday is a beautiful, holy night, but more engagement helps people feel and engage with the story. Get people involved. Invite new voices to chant the liturgy.
10. The Easter Vigil is beautiful too. Epsom salts and high-test rubbing alcohol make a lovely smokeless flame. Consult YouTube for directions. If starting the flame outside, remember that wind happens. Candles go out. Encourage more people to participate in the service. Some people love to chant the Exultet. Do not take it away from them. Hair can and does catch on fire. Have a plan for if it does. Descending darkness may necessitate reading lights. Homilies can be powerful sermons, too.
11. Tensions may be heightened at this time. Take care of your body. Eat well and get as much rest as possible.
12. Meet and greet and tend to the new people. Invite them to communion.
13. Miscommunication can easily happen when there’s so much going on. Make sure everyone is on the same page. Don’t assume. Ask questions, but don’t be annoying.
14. Never dismiss a child's contribution during the Easter children's sermon. Sometimes their words are more prophetic than we might initially realize.
15. Thank your altar guild.
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