Tenebrae: A Service of Shadows
All Saints Church, Matamata
Tenebrae, from the Latin word meaning shadows or darkness, is a solemn service held during Holy Week that invites us to reflect deeply on Christ’s suffering. Through scripture, music, silence, and the gradual extinguishing of light, the service draws us into the story of Christ’s passion.
At our Tenebrae service on 2 April, the choir carried the primary responsibility for proclaiming scripture through music. Taize Responses, the Trisagion Response, and a reflective Anthem were sung, each solemn and contemplative, focusing on Christ’s passion, death, and burial. Under the direction of Dave Brookes, the choir’s harmonies beautifully reflected the sombre nature of the service. The congregation also joined in three hymns, culminating with the much‑loved “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross.”
A defining feature of Tenebrae is the sequential extinguishing of candles arranged in a triangular candelabrum. After each scripture reading, a candle was extinguished, until the church was left in near‑darkness—symbolising Christ’s journey through his final days.
In profound silence and stillness, the lighting of the Paschal candle brought a powerful moment, symbolising the risen Christ as the light of the world, overcoming darkness and death.
It was a deeply moving and meaningful service for all who attended.
Reflection by Lindsay Tisch.