Communion of the Disciples
Maundy Thursday Service
Worship setting: This service is best celebrated in a fellowship hall or
basement where tables can be set up for the entire congregation. There should
be a head table with an empty space for Jesus, a loaf of bread, a pitcher of
grape juice, and cups. Tables for all other worshipers should be set with
pitchers of grape juice, small cups, and plates of bread. Candles would
enhance the setting. The head table should also have basins, pitchers of
water, and towels for the hand-washing activity.
Invitation to the Table
Prelude
Welcome
Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:17–20; John 13:1, 3–9, 12–17
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Hymn: "Make Me a Servant"
OR "’Twas on That Dark, That Solemn Night"
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NS 35
HS 337 |
Prayer of Invitation
We have come as disciples and are called to be servants. Lord, prepare
our hearts and our hands for your service. Help us to take your example into
our hearts, humble ourselves, and love one another. Forgive us and wash us
clean. Amen.
Hand-Washing Activity
Invite the congregation to come forward to the head table when ready and
those designated will wash their hands. A pair of appointed ministers
stands behind each pitcher and basin. The first one pours a small amount of
water on the worshiper’s hands. The second minister wipes the hands dry,
making eye contact with each person.
Hymns: to be sung during the washing of hands.
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"Jesus, Remember Me"
"Descend, O Spirit, Purging Flame" stanzas 1 and 2
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NS 26
HS
355 |
Sharing the Passover; Remembering the Lord’s Supper
Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:26–30
Preparation of the Emblems
Ministers break the bread at each table and pour the grape juice into
small cups.
Communion Remarks
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Hymn of Invitation: "Eat This Bread"
OR "Here, O My Lord"
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NS 8
HS 328 |
Blessing of the Bread and Wine
Serving of the Bread and Wine
Ministers are available at each table, handing the bread and wine
simultaneously.
Ministry of Music soloist or small group sings during the serving of the
bread and wine.
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"You Satisfy the Hungry Heart"
"Yesu, Yesu, Fill Us with Your Love"
OR "Remember Him"
—Don Besig and Nancy Price
(Delaware Water
Gap, Pennsylvania: Harold Flammer, A7353); SATB with flute
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HS 345
HS 407 |
We Leave the Table
Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:36–40
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*Hymn: "Leave We Now the Table of Our Lord"
OR "Beneath the Forms of Outward Rite"
*Benediction
*Response
*Postlude
|
HS 326
HS 339 |
