Algarve churches are preparing to welcome their regular Congregations plus all the visitors that arrive at this time of year
What comes immediately to mind when you think about Easter? Chocolate Eggs, Fluffy Chicks, adorable bunnies, or the start of Spring? For many of us, it means time off from work, spending more time with family and friends or maybe heading down to the beach for that first swim of the year.
But for the billions of Christians around the world, it’s a time of great sorrow and great joy as they remember the Easter of 2000 years ago and the events in Jerusalem which led to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Here in the Algarve, the churches are preparing to welcome their regular Congregations plus, of course, all the visitors that arrive at this time of year, who, in spite of being on vacation, still want to treat Easter as a time of special significance.
Christ The King Anglican Church in Almancil have planned a Holy Week Schedule that will lead their Congregation through Palm Sunday and the arrival of Christ in Jerusalem to his glorious resurrection seven days later.
Traditional services are to be held in “The Church in the Park” Jardim das Comunidades, Almancil on Palm Sunday (March 24), Good Friday (March 29) and Easter Sunday (March 31) at 10.30am. For those who cannot travel to Almancil, these services are also live on the ZOOM platform – just contact Ann on 932 841 943 for details on how to join.
In addition, this year, services are planned in “A Vida Plena”, Rua António Cabreira 15A, Tavira – starting on Good Friday with the Stations of the Cross in words and music at 10.30am and an Easter Sunday service also at 10.30am.
Something special for Easter 2024 is a Night Watch Vigil on ZOOM for the night of Maundy Thursday, March 28, from 7pm to 7am on Friday morning.
During this time, participants are being invited to allocate one hour to join with others for a quiet time of prayer, reflection, and meditation.
We are inviting everyone to commit to spending some time during the night to (in Jesus’ own words) keep watch for one hour as we prepare ourselves for the world-shattering events of Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
This Night Watch will be broadcast live on the ZOOM platform so that many more people will be able join us and feel part of the unfolding events.
“Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ which is good news for everyone including you!” said Rev’d Steve Chisholm, Rector of Christ. “Have a wonderful Easter and remember you are welcome to worship and celebrate Easter with us!”
To find out more about the Easter Services, contact 932 841 943 or www.ctk.pt
