Maundy Thursday. The word "maundy" derives from the Latin word "mandatum," from which we get the English word "mandate." In John 13:34-35, Jesus says on the night He was betrayed, "A new MANDATE I give you ... LOVE ONE ANOTHER. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, all will know you are my disciples, if you LOVE ONE ANOTHER."

The last several years, as a witness to our love for one another as Christ's disciples, despite differences in language, culture, ethnicity, and life circumstance, all of Chapelwood's worship communities come together for worship on Maundy Thursday - Sanctuary, Mercy Street, The Branch, Upper Room, Contemplative, and new this year, Holy Family.

Bob reads the opening liturgy and Melissa lights candles to welcome the Light. Darkness could not overcome it (John 1:5).

Bob and John bring in the water for hand-washing by pastors. Jesus on His last night washed His disciples feet as an act of humble love (John 13).

John and Luis read our scripture in English and Spanish.

Tammy and Christian read scripture and liturgy. Christian sang a Negro Spiritual as we ate bitter herbs.

Jerry explains about receiving Holy Communion, we do not take, we receive. We place our hands in the sign of the cross as Christ's body is given to us.

Wick prays and breaks the bread of Holy Communion.

Jacob explains about and leads prayer over the anointing oil. "Oil is the dear friend of the Holy Spirt," Jacob said, quoting an ancient Church Father. It makes us "slick" so the attacks of the evil one slide right off of us! We had to press two more anointing stations into service!