Paris, Tenn.–Next week is Holy Week and several local churches will be holding services, culminating in Good Friday and a sunrise Easter service.
According to Rev. Joy Weathersbee of First United Methodist Church, the services will be held at noon each day from Monday, April 14-18 at Grace Episcopal Church at 103 S. Poplar St.
“Each day (Monday through Good Friday), the Paris/Henry Co. Community is invited to gather at noon in the beautiful and historic sanctuary of Grace Episcopal Church”, she said. “After a brief time of worship led by different pastors, all are invited to share in a lite lunch provided in Ketchum Hall. There is no charge for the meal, but a donation is suggested, which will be directed toward a local helping agency.”
On Monday, the service reading will be John 12:1-11, with Dr. John Dandridge and Dr. Janie Dandridge leading. Music will be provided by Rhonda Stanton. Quinn Chapel AME Church will provide lunch.
On Tuesday, the service reading is John 12:20-36, with the Rev. Emily Walker as preacher, Elder James Travis as liturgist and Stanton again providing music. Lunch will be provided by Trinity United Methodist Church and the Church of the Living God.
On Wednesday, the service reading is John 13: 21-32. The Rev. Caren Teichmann will serve as preacher, with the Rev. Jackie Gardner as liturgist, and music performed by the Krider Performing Arts Center Ensemble. Lunch will be provided by First Christian Church.
On Maundy Thursday, the service reading is John 13:1-17; 31-35, with the Rev. Melissa Worthey as preacher, Dr. Pam Evans as liturgist, and music by Rev. Jackie Gardner. Lunch will be provided by First Presbyterian Church, with the assistance of New Hope and Wiley Chapel United Methodist churches.
On Good Friday, the service reading will be John 18:1-19:42. Readers will be Elder Travis, Rev. Gardner, the Rev. Joy Weathersbee and Dr. John Dandridge. Dr. Robert Gardner will serve as liturgist, with music provided by musicians from First Christian Church. First United Methodist Church will provide lunch.
An Easter Sunrise Service will take place at 6 a.m. April 20 at the pavilion at Trinity United Methodist Church, 409 N. Wilson St.