Holy Week is the most sacred week in the Christian calendar — the week when we walk with Jesus from His triumphant entry into Jerusalem all the way to the empty tomb. If you’ve never attended Holy Week services, or if you’re looking to go deeper this year, here’s what to expect at Immanuel.
Palm Sunday — March 29
Palm Sunday opens Holy Week with a dramatic contrast: Jesus rides into Jerusalem as a king while the crowds wave palm branches and shout “Hosanna!” Yet within days, those same crowds will cry “Crucify him.” Palm Sunday holds both the triumph and the shadow of the cross together. (This service has already taken place — watch the recording on our Services & Sermons page.)
Maundy Thursday — April 2 at 6:30 pm
On the night before He died, Jesus gathered His disciples for the Passover meal — and in that upper room, gave them something entirely new: His own body and blood in, with, and under bread and wine. “Do this in remembrance of me.”
The name “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum — commandment — because Jesus gave a new commandment that night: love one another as I have loved you. Our Maundy Thursday service includes Holy Communion and concludes with the stripping of the altar, a powerful and sobering ritual that leaves the sanctuary bare as we enter into the grief of Good Friday.
Good Friday — April 3
Good Friday is the most solemn day of the church year. Two ways to observe it at Immanuel:
Prayer Vigil — 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. The church is open for quiet, individual prayer and reflection before the cross during the hours Jesus hung on Calvary. Come and go as you are able. No program, no schedule — just stillness before the cross.
Evening Worship Service — 6:30 pm. Our Good Friday service includes special music, readings from the Passion narrative, and a meditation on what Christ’s death means for us. This is one of the most moving services of the year.
Holy Saturday Easter Vigil — April 4 at 6:30 pm
Holy Saturday is the day of waiting — the day the disciples didn’t yet know what Sunday would bring. The Easter Vigil service is an ancient tradition that begins in darkness and moves toward the light of resurrection. It’s a quiet, reflective way to prepare your heart for Easter morning.
Easter Sunday — April 5 at 8:00 am and 10:30 am
He is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!
Both Easter services feature beautiful music, seasonal decorations, and the proclamation that changed everything: death is defeated, the grave is empty, and Jesus is alive. New to Immanuel? Easter is a wonderful Sunday to come — you will be warmly welcomed.
Easter Breakfast & Egg Hunt take place between services in the gym. Limited menu available before 8:30 am; Egg Hunt at 9:45 am. Bring the kids!
Join Us — In Person or Online
All Holy Week services are held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 2616 Connecticut Ave, Joplin, MO. All services are also livestreamed at immanueljoplin.com/LIVE.
Questions? Call the church office at (417) 624-0333 or send us a message. We’d love to see you this week.