Worship services throughout the season of Lent and Easter Sunday at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church will include special community services for Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. The triumphant Easter Worship Service is 11 AM on April 20, 2025.
The season of Lent is a time of prayer and self-examination in preparation for the celebration of the resurrection of the Lord at Easter. Lent is a time to re-connect with our faith. Some people give up damaging behaviors to draw closer to God. Others add new practices including service in the community.
Ash Wednesday Community Service, March 5, 2025, at 12 Noon
Begin the season of Lent together by singing, praying, hearing scripture and a message, and receiving the imposition of ashes at this 40-minute service – representing the 40 days leading up to Christ’s resurrection. Ashes symbolize mortality of humans and our need for repentance. Ash Wednesday is a day of humility and of new beginnings.
Good Friday Community Tenebrae Service, April 18 at 6 PM
A powerful service of readings and songs entitled “Witnesses” features reflections from people who had interactions with Jesus. Meditations and scripture will be paired with music by the adult choir, handbell choir, soloists and guest musicians.
The music, led by Choral Director Nina Allbert and Organist/Pianist David Soyars, will include “Agnus Dei” from High Lonesome (Bluegrass) Mass and beautiful arrangements of “When Jesus Wept”, “More Love to Thee”, and many more. Dr. Janet Speer wrote the impactful readings.
“Jesus touched many people before he was crucified, so the woman accused of adultery, the leper, the children, and Peter will speak to the great loss,” says Dr. Speer.“ Using these voices, we hear words they might have spoken and sing songs they might have sung. We see grief in people of ancient times who believed, for three days, that there was no hope.”
Tenebrae is the Latin word meaning “darkness”. It is also known as a service of shadows, observed by the Church since medieval times. Throughout the service, the lights grow dimmer and dimmer until the church is in darkness. Worshipers leave in silence and darkness to ponder the impact of Christ’s death.
Also watch our live stream on our YouTube Channel.
Community Sunrise Service: April 20 at 6:30 AM
Join several Banner Elk church congregations on Resurrection Hill, located on Lees-McRae College South Campus.
Easter Sunday Service: April 20 at 11 AM
Joyfully acclaim: Christ the Lord is risen today! Sing along with celebratory hymns accompanied by the pipe organ. Hear a special anthem by the Chancel Choir. Handbells and a string trio join the celebration. After the inspiring sermon, the traditional service concludes with communion and the singing of the Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus. Bring flowers for the flowering cross on the lawn. Also watch our live stream on our YouTube Channel.
Special Offering for World Disaster, Hunger, and Oppression
For over 70 years, One Great Hour of Sharing has provided Presbyterians a way to share God’s love with our neighbors in need around the world. This special offering received during the season of Lent supports efforts to relieve hunger through the Presbyterian Hunger Program, promote development through the Presbyterian Committee on the Self-Development of People, and assist in areas of disaster through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. Give your offering at church through Easter. Read more and give online.