Tenebrae

The name Tenebrae is the Latin word for “darkness” or “shadows.” This service is marked by a reading from the book of Lamentations and the gradual extinguishing of candles and other lights until a single candle, considered a symbol of the Lord, remains. Towards the end of the service, this candle is hidden, typifying the apparent victory of the forces of evil. At the very end, a loud noise is made, symbolizing the earthquake at the time of the resurrection (Matthew 28:2), the hidden candle is restored to its place and by its light all depart in silence. Our service of Tenebrae will be led by the Rev. Ted Christopher with an octet of singers from Penn State’s School of Music.