Members of the senior high-school youth-ministry program at Livonia’s St. Matthew Church held a Good Friday Tenebrae service April 14. The service, which has been held annually for 18 years, featured a series of readings and psalms in a darkened church, followed by the gradual extinguishing of candles. Narratives telling the story of Jesus’ crucifixion were written and recited by the the program’s youths.
Youth-group member Kristin Phillips waits in the back of a darkened St. Matthew Church in Livonia during a Good Friday Tenebrae service April 14.
Youth-group member Kristin Phillips waits in the back of a darkened St. Matthew Church in Livonia during a Good Friday Tenebrae service April 14.
Ellen O’Neil delivers a narrative at the start of the Tenebrae service.
A youth-group member brings forward the crown of thorns at the start of the service.
Audience members sit in darkness during the service.
Youth-group member Kristin Phillips stands in the front of the church during a reading.
Terrence LoPresti carries a wooden cross to the front of the church.
Near the end of the service, Kirstin Phillips retrieves the final candle from the front of the church.
